Title,Contract Number,Agency,Branch,Program,Year,Phase,Award Amount,SBC,Street,Street 2,City,State,ZIP,Woman-Owned?,Minority-Owned?,HUBZone-Owned?,Contact Name,Contact Title,Contact Phone,Contact Email,Principal Investigator,PI Title,PI Phone,PI Email,Abstract
Development of Large-Aperture Periodically Poled Magnesium Oxide-doped Lithium Niobate,DE-SC0011302,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2014,1,149911.20,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Ms.,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Matthew Bigelow,Dr.,4065220388,mbigelow@advr-inc.com,"Optical parametric chirped pulse amplification (OPCPA) with periodically-poled nonlinear crystals is a key technology in the development of accelerator laser systems because such systems enable broadband amplification of high-energy laser pulses over a wide range of different pulse wavelengths. To avoid optical damage and the occurrence of unwanted nonlinear optical processes in the nonlinear crystal that would otherwise occur with a high-energy pulse, the intensity of the pulse must be reduced by widening the beam and expanding the aperture of the crystal as much as possible. However, it is technically challenging to periodically pole large-aperture chips with high fidelity, and none are commercially available. AdvR, Inc., proposes an innovative approach to produce cm-scale large-aperture periodically-poled magnesium oxide- doped lithium niobate (PPMgO:LN) suitable for OPCPA and other high-power nonlinear applications. AdvRs approach is enabled by its patented submount poling technique combined with recent proprietary advances in the poling setup which results in a substantial reduction in non-poling leakage current associated with poling MgO:LN. The overall objective for this Phase I SBIR project is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing periodically-poled nonlinear frequency conversion chips that have an aperture up to 10 mm. To accomplish this objective, AdvR will modify its existing submount poling apparatus and electrodes to accommodate chips up to a 10 x10 mm. An important part of this modification will be the redesign of a heating apparatus to uniformly elevate the temperature of the chip during poling which reduces the required poling voltage and improves poling uniformity. Using the upgraded submount poling configuration, poling of chips up to a thickness of 10 mm will be tried. Poling uniformity will be documented as a function of poling voltage waveform, substrate temperature, and other factors to determine the feasibility of developing an optimal poling process in Phase II for a wide range of substrate thicknesses up to 10 mm and poling periods near 30 m. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: The development and commercialization of cm- scale periodically poled chips will greatly increase the power-handling capabilities of late-stage OPCPA and frequency conversion systems and thus enable the development of next-generation high-power, short-pulsed lasers for accelerator-based applications. Other commercial applications that will benefit from the development a high yield, low cost process for producing large aperture PPMgO:LN include laser based remote sensing, precision spectroscopy, laser machining, and infrared countermeasures."
Optical Waveguide Cross-Correlator for Attosecond Timing Synchronization,DE-SC0011377,DOE,DOE,STTR,2014,1,149947.60,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Ms.,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Dr.,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This Phase I SBIR/STTR will establish the feasibility of developing a precision balanced optical cross-correlator using engineered nonlinear optical waveguides. The proposed device will be important for future advances at large scale accelerator facilities by providing a means to achieve long-term sub- femtosecond timing and synchronization of all of a facilitys optical and RF sub-systems over fiber optic links. The innovative balanced optical cross-correlation technique takes advantage of a wide bandwidth second harmonic generation (SHG) interaction that is possible in periodically-poled KTP (PPKTP) to measure the arrival time difference between two optical pulses while cancelling errors due to intensity fluctuations and photodetector phase noise. A waveguide-based cross-correlator offers substantial improvements compared to bulk PPKTP through orders of magnitude better SHG efficiency and compact, robust, noise-free, fiber-coupled packaging. In this Phase I effort, PPKTP waveguides will be designed, fabricated, and tested to determine if they can be used as the basis for fiber-link timing synchronization measured in attoseconds to support next-generation advances in Basic Energy Sciences user facilities. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: A robust, fiber-based device will improve and simplify precision timing at linear accelerators, improving performance and reducing maintenance and installation costs. Future advances in basic science research, radar and telecommunications, quantum communication, and quantum computation will also depend upon precision timing at attosecond time scales."
High Fidelity Heralded On Demand Single Photon Source,FA9451-14-M-0172,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2014,1,149919.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,(406) 522-0388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Senior Physicist,(406) 522-0388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"ABSTRACT: To provide reliably secure communications, development of practical quantum optical devices for ground-to-space quantum key distribution is a necessity. The overall goal of this Air Force effort is to develop and deliver a single photon source based on heralding to indicate when a photon has been generated. The proposed device will produce single photons on demand with high efficiency, narrow linewidth, high rate, and sub-Poissonian statistics providing the key technology required for deployment of free space ground-to-ground and space-to-ground links and future construction of a global quantum network. The waveguide-based technology is compact, robust, and power efficient for deployment on space-based platforms to provide provably, unconditionally secure quantum encryption meeting Air Force demands. BENEFIT: Quantum-based communication is of prime interest to corporations and government agencies with high security requirements. In cases where classical schemes are not considered trustworthy, key distribution by courier is typically used. Unlike human courier networks, quantum cryptography has the ability to detect interception of the key, has greater reliability and operating costs, and is automatic and instantaneous. For long distance quantum communication to be practical, space-to-ground links are a necessity due to the current limitations of optical fiber and photon detectors in ground-to-ground links. A space-based implementation of the technology may also answer important questions in fundamental physics by testing the properties of quantum entanglements over much greater distances than ever before, and due to earth""s gravitational curvature may even provide an insight to the relationship between gravity and quantum physics. Additionally, the path to creating entangled photon sources that are as ubiquitous as diode lasers are today has implications in whole new arenas of economic development in addition to national security."
Dual-Mode Continuous-Wave Ladar and Optical Communications System,W9132V-14-C-0002,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2014,2,599999.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter Roos,Vice President and CEO,(406) 585-2774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,President and COO,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Because the data products generated by modern imaging ladar systems are inherently large in information content, there is currently a severe bottleneck in the communications of these products to end users, particularly when full-waveform recovery is desired. During the Phase I effort, Bridger demonstrated that their 3D imaging system architecture was ideally suited for seamless integration of high-speed free-space optical (FSO) communications. The system will capitalize on Bridgers existing ladar technology that can provide, when needed, foliage penetration, Doppler signatures, very high dynamic range, and the highest range resolution available. During the proposed Phase II effort, Bridger will develop, field test and deliver a fully operational dual-mode 3D imager and FSO communications system. To do so, Bridger will refine its system models and prototype design and then construct the prototype and downlink station. Bridger will field test the device in Corbin, VA out to>2 km. During the second year, Bridger will engineer the FSO subsystem to be robust to strong atmospheric turbulence by integrating advanced coding schemes and multi-aperture transceivers. Finally, the device will be packaged and delivered to the Army in Corbin, VA where final field testing and training will be provided."
Lidar-based high resolution 3D imager and remote gas sensor: a new paradigm for terrestrial environmental monitoring,DE-SC0011233,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2014,1,224994.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Lisa Bleile,Dr.,4065852774,bleile@bridgerphotonics.com,Michael Thorpe,Dr.,4065852774,thorpe@bridgerphotonics.com,"Predictive modeling and understanding of the response and resilience of the terrestrial environment to both climate change and human intervention is critical for sustainable management of natural resources. However, measurement and modeling of terrestrial environments is challenging due to the complexity and multitude of interactions occurring among plants, microbes, minerals, migrating fluids, and dissolved constituents within the bedrock-to-canopy zone. To improve predictive understanding of the coupled terrestrial ecosystem dynamics and to identify their interrelated controls, numerous coordinated measurements are needed. To this end, preliminary measurements at the Next Generation Ecosystem Experiment near Barrow, Ak (NGEE-Arctic) indicate that such co-analysis of different geophysical data streams holds promise for identifying fundamental relationships between different ecosystem parameters. However, current sensor technology makes data acquisition labor intensive, and yields low spatialtemporal resolution datasets. Improved scientific instrumentation that can acquire multi-parameter simultaneous measurements from UAV-mounted platforms are needed to enable high-spatiotemporal-resolution over wide geographic areas. Such instrumentation will facilitate a clear understanding of the interrelated processes that govern ecosystems to enable prediction of terrestrial and climate outcomes based on measurements. To address this measurement need, Bridger Photonics proposes collaborating with Susan Hubbard at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to develop and test a combined 3D imager and remote gas sensor to advance terrestrial environmental monitoring at sites such as the NGEE-Arctic. The proposed sensor will combine Bridgers existing 3D imaging technology with simultaneous and co-aligned CO2 and water vapor concentration measurements. The LBNL team will provide data acquisition networks and data fusion algorithms to co-characterize lidar datasets with other subsurface and surface-based geophysical measurements to greatly improve understanding of ecosystem dynamics. The Phase II effort will adapt the proposed sensor for use from a UAV platform to greatly increase the spatiotemporal coverage for terrestrial environmental monitoring. The DOE will also have the option to develop additional sensor configurations including bathymetric imaging of inundated surfaces and measuring atmospheric CH4 concnetrations. In addition to the expected utility for scientific ecosystem monitoring, this technology is expected to be useful for monitoring processes relevant to industrial and commercial activities. Potential applications include: methane leak detection from pipelines, well platforms, and holding tanks for the petroleum industry, biomass density estimation in managed ecosystems for agriculture and timber industries, carbon dioxide emissions monitoring for increased accountability in the carbon economy, and monitoring and maintenance of critical infrastructure for transportation and geotechnical industries."
Tomographic Coherent Ladar Based Atmospheric Turbulence Profile Characterization System,FA8650-14-M-1787,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2014,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Lisa Bleile,Financial Controller,(406) 585-2774,bleile@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,President,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"ABSTRACT: This Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I project will investigate, develop, and determine the feasibility of using a coherent FMCW ladar measurement system and tomographic methods to provide characterization of atmospheric turbulence profiles. By coherently tracking a small array of point targets from multiple receivers in a known geometry, the transverse and longitudinal structure of refractive index fluctuations can be estimated along several intersecting paths. These integrated path measurements can be combined to form an incoherent or coherent tomographic reconstruction of the atmospheric turbulence. The use of high range resolution FMCW chirped ladar allows point targets to be identified and isolated by their range even when individual targets cannot be optically resolved in the transverse dimension due to broadening by strong optical turbulence. The use of passive retro-reflecting targets or possibly laser guide stars illuminating on a diffuse, opaque target makes the technique well suited to characterization of down-looking and slant-path turbulence profiles from an airborne platform. The proposed technique uses methods and ideas from Synthetic Aperture Ladar (SAL) imaging. The Phase I work will provide algorithmic and experimental proof-of-concept demonstrations and analysis to determine the feasibility of a long-range atmospheric turbulence characterization system. BENEFIT: The United States Air Force currently deploys and anticipates more widespread deployment of a variety of active electro-optical sensors and systems including laser altimeters, wind lidar, free-space optical communications, vibrometry, and coherent imaging sensors including synthetic aperture and holographic ladar imaging. The performance of all of these systems is impacted by atmospheric turbulence. Atmospheric turbulence has been extensively studied both theoretically and experimentally, but remains largely an intractable problem particularly in low altitude slant-path applications due to its inherent randomness, chaotic unpredictability, and strong effects. Typically, turbulence is characterized by the path-integrated structure constant or the Fried parameter, whereas the performance of electro-optic systems depends on the structure constant as a function of distance. Bridger Photonics, Inc. and Montana State University Spectrum Lab propose to develop a system to characterize the atmospheric turbulence as a function of distance but also in a spatially and temporally resolved manner. The success of such an approach would represent a significant leap forward in the characterization of atmospheric turbulence and may unlock a deeper understanding of a fundamentally chaotic problem and potentially perpetrate improved electro-optic, coherent imaging and coherent communications systems."
APERTURE SYNTHESIS ENABLED BY FAST FOCAL PLANE ARRAYS,FA8650-14-M-1793,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2014,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Lisa Bleile,Controller,(406) 585-2774,bleile@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Chief Operations Officer,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"ABSTRACT: There is a critical need for optical imagers that can achieve both extremely high resolution and a compact form factor for rapid and accurate target identification and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance from airborne platforms. Under this effort, Bridger Photonics Inc. proposes to determine the feasibility of an unconventional imaging system that leverages fast focal plane arrays. Bridger""s existing system design records information over an extended three dimensional Fourier data space and can utilize either distributed apertures, aperture motion or target motion to improve overall imaging resolution in any of the dimensions. Bridger will perform system modeling and hardware demonstrations by using the basic system design in three""focus""areas including: 1) using multiple transceivers for enhanced resolution and rapid Fourier fill, 2) using low coherence sources combined with the fast focal plane array in a novel sub-resolved Fourier telescopy configuration and 3) enhancing passive imagery by using digital corrections estimated when the active system is engaged. Bridger will down select successful approaches, provide a Phase II prototype design and determine its feasibility. Bridger would implement the prototype design during the Phase II effort, provide both indoor and outdoor testing of the device, and deliver the final hardware to the sponsor. BENEFIT: Under the proposed effort Bridger Photonics Inc. will develop an advanced distributed aperture imaging system with better spatial resolution than is possible with conventional imaging. The proposed system will provide a significant savings in size, weight and power and will be designed to fit within existing EO turret or sensor pods. Bridger""s technology offers several critical competitive advantages including 1) Unparalleled resolution in three dimensions by enabling large synthetic apertures, 2) ultra-compact and robust form factor, and 3) rapid acquisition, processing and display times. With these competitive advantages, Bridger anticipates that it will be well positioned to capitalize on identified commercial and military markets. These markets include replacing specialized, high resolution optical sensors on existing airborne assets in the Air Force fleet, providing additional capability into platforms which use sensor balls or pods for attaching to unmanned drones, and providing a unique, ultra-low-profile high resolution imagers. The technology has appeal in commercial markets as well, where it can be used for improving the spatial resolution in metrology and manufacturing markets."
Portable SPR Imaging Biosensor for Pathogen Detection,FA8650-14-M-6525,DOD,DHP,SBIR,2014,1,150000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd McAdams,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5233,tmcadams@resodyn.com,"Many of the currently available options for food safety testing are expensive, slow, or limited in the range of threats that can be detected. Sending samples back to testing facilities in the United States is too slow and cumbersome to effectively respond to immediate food safety issues. SPR technology has been well-developed as a tool for molecular analysis, so it is relatively mature in terms of detection methods, chemistry and protocols. However, up until now, SPR devices have been primarily limited to large, expensive, benchtop units that require considerable expertise for operation of the devices. What is needed is the development of inexpensive, field-portable SPR devices that are extremely easy to operate in the field. Additionally, the use of a disposable fluidics card format would greatly enhance ease-of-use and device contamination concerns. Resodyn Corporation has made significant progress in developing SPR biosensors, and proposes to develop a field-portable SPR biosensor as a food safety monitoring device. This sensor would be able to detect the presence of multiple pathogens and/or toxins simultaneously at levels relevant to preventing food-borne illness. In addition to determining the presence of pathogens, specific methods are proposed to assess the viability of the pathogens as well."
Validation Device for Cold Expanded Holes,FA8117-14-C-0023,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2014,1,150000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Stephen Galbraith,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5223,SGalbraith@resodyn.com,"ABSTRACT: Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop a portable, cost effective, near-surface residual stress measuring tools based on electromagnetic principles. Resodyn Corporation has patented technology developed for validating cold expanded button head rivet holes.The first application in Phase I is to apply this technology to countersunk cold expanded rivet holes in 7075 aluminum. In Phase II, probes will be developed for all of the common hole sizes of interest to the Air Force, and additional evaluation algorithms will be developed for other alloys such as 2024 aluminum and titanium. At the end of Phase II, field tools will be available for evaluation at Tinker AFB. The proposed work will include custom sensors, proprietary detection circuitry (patent pending), residual stress, strain and cold work studies, and correlating algorithms. Extending the technology to other surface stress processes such as peening on fan and compressor blades is also proposed for Phase II. BENEFIT: An operational need exists for a non-destructive method that can quantify the effectiveness of the cold expanded hole process. When the correct amount of residual stress is induced around a cold expanded rivet hole, fatigue life is enhanced up to 20,000 hours. However, because there is no method to guarantee, 100%, that the correct amount of residual compressive stress was created, the process cannot be given credit in design calculations. It is presently done to provide un-credited safety margin. The proposed validation device for cold expanded holes will provide 100% inspection and thus enable the design credit."
The Most Efficient (TME) Cold Chain Container for Blood,W81XWH-13-C-0149,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2014,2,454971.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Stephen Galbraith,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5223,SGalbraith@Resodyn.com,"Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop a novel cold chain system with a Lifetime Warranty (20+ years) for the vacuum container. The container is composed of a passive energy efficient system for transporting blood and pharmaceuticals in hostile environments for up to three days. Capacity is four unit blood transfusion bags. Energy efficiency is possible by the novel shape and super insulating qualities proposed. The proposed Phase II work extends positive outcomes from a Phase I investigation. At the end of Phase II, six systems will be delivered. Systems include the cold chain container system, temperature monitoring options, and research work on vacuum insulated panel reliability for shelf life extension (SLEP) programs."
Application of Phase Noise Discrimination to Electronic Warfare (EW),N00024-14-P-4524,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2014,1,79884.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Heather Rodel,Operations Manager,(406) 922-0334,roedel@s2corporation.com,Kris Merkel,"PI, Pres/CEO",(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"We proposed to analyze and demonstrate phase noise detection of emitters across a wide bandwidth>20 GHz with a novel RF sensor, and to identify and develop a set of approaches to make passive measurements of the signatures and phase noise of non-cooperative antenna platform systems, utilizing the emissions from the antenna and/or the reflections off the antenna from jammers and other transmitters. We will determine technical feasibility through modeling and simulation. We aim to demonstrate these techniques, and promote transition of these techniques to SEWIP Block2/3."
Direct Conversion of Municipal and Agricultural Wastes to Biodiesel and Ethanol Utilizing a Unique Extremophilic Fungus,EP-D-14-014,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2014,1,99944.00,"Sustainable Bioproducts, LLC","920 Technology Blvd., Suite 102",,Bozeman,MT,59718-,No,No,No,Mark Kozubal,,406-579-8383,MKozubal@gmail.com,Mark Kozubal,,(406) 579-8383,MKozubal@gmail.com,"Sustainable Bioproducts LLCĺs proposed research will further develop an efficient, economical and scalable process for conversion of municipal solid wastes and agricultural wastes to biodiesel and ethanol. The technology is based on use of a novel extremophilic fungus, named strain MK7, which thrives in pH 1.2 bison dung ingeothermal habitats of Yellowstone National Park. The United States produces significant quantities of waste materials that are discarded. These wastes include organic components of municipal solid waste (MSW), biosolids from wastewater treatment plants and agricultural waste such as wheat straw. The release of these materials and their byproducts into the environment can have serious consequences, such as pollution of ground and surface water resources and spread of disease. Current technologies to convert waste materials into fuels are typically limited by poor conversion efficiencies, therequirement for significant inputs and controls to sustain the conversion process, and the low cost of the produced fuel (methane). Consequently, implementation and maintenance of these systems often requires significant monetary subsidies. Our innovative process represents a departure from currenttechnologies through the use of strain MK7, which can directly convert a wide variety of waste materials into valuable fuels.
Genomic, proteomic, and enzyme analyses have revealed that degradation of waste feedstocks by strain MK7 is catalyzed by a powerful suite of enzymes, including copper-dependent lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases peroxidases (family GH61/AA9), ligninases, cellulases, xylanases and lipases. This enzyme suite is unique in that it targets all components of most feedstocks. Further, strain MK7 is capable of hydrolyzing 80-90% of pretreated switchgrass to soluble components. Following degradation of the feedstock, strain MK7 efficiently converts the products into easily extractable biodiesel precursors (38% lipids/dry weight of fungus) and ethanol. The objectives of this proposed work are to optimize conversion of organic non-recyclable MSW and biosolids from waste treatment plants to biodiesel and or ethanol using strain MK7, and ôfine-tuneö our process for converting these feedstocks using a bench-scale consolidated bioprocessing system. The simplicity, scalability and enhanced efficiency of waste-to-fuel conversion using our technology will enable onsiteprocessing with significant economic advantages compared to current technologies. Sustainable Bioproducts envisions that this technology will be game changing for the waste-to-biofuels industry and that the financial benefits will be a strong impetus for application by municipalities and farming operations. Implementation of this process on a large-scale would result in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and decreased use of fossil fuels."
Using Biomineralization Sealing for Leakage Mitigation in Shale during CO2 Sequestration,DE-SC0010099,DOE,DOE,STTR,2014,2,1000000.00,"Montana Emergent Technologies, Inc.",160 West Granite St.,,Butte,MT,59701-9260,No,No,Yes,Dwight R. Hiebert,Dr.,4064988312,rhiebert@mt-emergent.com,Robin Gerlach,Dr.,4069941840,robin_g@coe.montana.edu,Leaky wells are a problem in the oil & amp; gas as well as the geologic carbon sequestration industry. We are developing biologically produced minerals (biocement) to seal potential leakage pathways to ensure environmentally friendly production and storage operations.
The Selective Control of Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) with Low-Cost Application of a Naturally Occurring Phytotoxic Element,2013-00196,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2013,1,100000.00,BLUE MOON BULBS LLP,110 PROGRESSIVE DR,,Belgrade,MT,59714-9141,Yes,No,No,Laura Y. Smith,President,406-388-1116,westscapenursery@yahoo.com,Laura Y. Smith,President,406-388-1116,westscapenursery@yahoo.com,"Westscape Nursery proposes a Phase I project to establish a solution to the problem of rapid cheatgrass infestation in the western U.S. Preliminary studies have shown the ability of a naturally occurring elemental compound used in precise formulation to totally suppress and selectively control germinating and developing cheatgrass. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the US Forest Service (USFS) describe cheatgrass as ""the invader that won the West"". This non-native, invasive grass species is present on 100 million acres in the Great Basin and Intermountain West. The BLM estimates that several thousand new acres are invaded by cheatgrass daily, with each plant producing upwards of 1,000 seeds. Cheatgrass is the principal driving force behind the epidemic wildfires occurring continually and with greater frequency across the region and is largely responsible for the perilous decline of the sagebrush-steppe ecosystem; one of the nations largest ecosystems. The ecosystem is home to some 3,000 species of birds, vertebrate, and invertebrate species all of which are dependent on the habitat and health of this rapidly declining ecosystem. Cheatgrass is also predicted to be the invasive grass species most likely to expand its range with climate change to the detriment of native rangeland and forests and is already being observed at higher elevations and latitudes. Climate change modeling data show that cheatgrass could increase its range by as much as 45% in the coming century. Losses of grazing lands, forest products, recreational opportunities, and property due to cheatgrass invasion total in the billions of dollars annually. Cheatgrass impacted lands become more susceptible to erosion, causing increased sedimentation in the regions fragile water systems. Once burned, efforts to reclaim these lands with native species are expensive and often ineffectual as cheatgrass rapidly dominates burned grasslands and forests. Herbicides are the principal strategy for controlling cheatgrass. The BLM currently sprays one million acres annually for cheatgrass in the Great Basin at an average cost of $70/acre. Herbicidal applications often eliminate native vegetation such as sagebrush, further exacerbating the cheatgrass-fire cycle. Westscape will advance this technology towards a cost-effective, ecologically sound product that will selectively suppress cheatgrass proliferation while promoting the establishment of desirable native species. The estimated cost per acre of application at this time is a fraction of traditional methods of cheatgrass control using herbicides. In Phase I, Westscape will demonstrate that: 1) this formulation will effectively suppress cheatgrass on former sagebrush-steppe lands, and 2) will do so without adverse effect on endemic native vegetation and revegetation species. In Phase II, Westscape will conduct larger-scale independent field studies with its USDA-NRCS cooperators. At the end of Phase II, Westcape will have a product that can be easily and economically used by reclamation professionals that will help suppress cheatgrass while enhancing the ability of desirable native to establish on impacted sites."
Atmospheric Characterization for Directed Energy Applications,HQ0147-13-C-7305,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,99976.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,(406) 994-9354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,(406) 994-9354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Atmospheric refractive index fluctuations directly impact the propagation of laser beams through the atmosphere. A key parameter of interest to be directly acquired or derived from atmospheric measurements is the refractive index structure parameter CN2. Atmospheric refractive index, and therefore CN2, can theoretically be derived as a function of temperature, humidity, and pressure measurements, but there are significant problems associated with such an approach. To better meet the measurement needs, a suite of three sondes will be developed: a new type of thermosonde, a refractive index sonde, and a full-featured sonde that incorporates those functions plus other meteorological measurements. The former two sondes will return high-speed data that can be used to compute CN2 and the related parameter CT2, respectively. The full-featured sonde will return all of that data plus other relevant meteorological and optical parameters. Data from these sondes will be integrated with atmospheric models to enable forecasts of these parameters and to support the development of decision-making aids based on the models. In Phase I, the new thermosonde will be developed and demonstrated, the other two sondes will be designed, and suitable forecast models will be identified for use with the sonde data."
Droplet-Sizing Liquid Water Content Sensor,NNX13CC18P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2013,1,124979.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Icing is a significant aviation hazard, and icing conditions continue to be difficult to precisely forecast or locate in real time. An in-situ sensor, which can be flown coupled with a radiosonde, is needed which can both measure supercooled liquid water content in clouds as well as characterize the droplet sizes. This sensor will support the calibration and validation of remote-sensing methods used to detect icing conditions, and can also be used on its own to support operational meteorology applications.Anasphere, Inc. proposes to develop a sizing supercooled liquid water content (SSLWC) sonde which will meet this need. It will be based on proven vibrating-wire technology which has been used for total water content measurements, but with an altogether different physical implementation that will enable droplet sizing.Phase I will involve the aerodynamic design of the SSLWC sonde, icing tunnel tests demonstrating key elements of its function, and a live flight test to gather information on the sonde's aerodynamic characteristics. Phase II will involve further tunnel tests, laboratory calibration development, design for manufacturability, and flight tests in icing conditions."
Dual-Mode Continuous-Wave Ladar and Optical Communications System,W9132V-13-P-0003,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,149997.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,Vice President and CEO,(406) 585-2774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,President and COO,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Because the data products generated by modern imaging ladar systems are inherently large in information content, there is currently a severe bottleneck in the communications of these products to end users, particularly when full-waveform recovery is desired. Bridger Photonics Inc. proposes to develop a dual-mode laser system capable of performing laser radar imaging as well as high speed free-space optical communications using the same laser source. The system will capitalize on Bridger""s existing ladar technology that can provide, when needed, foliage penetration, Doppler signatures, very high dynamic range, and the highest range resolution available. Bridger will demonstrate that their system architecture is ideally positioned to seamlessly integrate high-speed free-space optical communications as an additional and potentially simultaneous mode of operation without significant alterations to Bridger""s existing system components. To do so, Bridger plans to determine the subsystem design for the free-space optical communication system and model the anticipated system performance. Critical hardware demonstrations will be performed that will highlight the dual-mode operation. Finally, a preliminary Phase II design will be downselected and its costs, performance and feasibility will be determined. A Phase I option will enhance this prototype design to enable a smooth transition to a potential Phase II effort."
"Compact, Rugged and Low-Cost Atmospheric Ozone DIAL Transmitter",NNX13CL07C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2013,1,198559.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Pete Roos,CEO,4255852774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Mike Thorpe,Principal Investigator,4065852774,thorpe@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics Inc. (Bridger) proposes to develop the most compact, efficient and low-cost ultra-violet ozone differential absorption lidar (DIAL) transmitter available. This system will use a frequency-doubled, conductively-cooled, q-switched Nd:YAG laser to pump a combination optical parametric oscillator (OPO) and sum frequency generation (SFG) cavity to deliver 6 ns, 1.5 mJ and 1 kHz pulses at three wavelengths within the 280 nm to 316 nm ozone DIAL band. Bridger will employ mechanically robust and environmentally insensitive monolithic laser and OPO designs making the transmitter well suited for continuous DIAL measurements from ground-based, airborne and space-based platforms. Bridger estimates that the high efficiency and compact packaging offered by the proposed pump laser and OPO will result in an ozone DIAL transmitter that weighs<30 kg (including the control electronics), consumes less than 550 W of power at 110VAC, and costs less than $75,000 per unit."
Multi-Function Mid-wave/Long Wave Infrared Laser,N00024-13-P-4597,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,79971.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Sandra Reibel,Finance Manager,(406) 585-2774,sandy@bridgerphotonics.com,Peter Roos,"Laser Physicist, CEO",(406) 585-2774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,"To address the Navy's needs for a multi-band, pulsed, high average power transmitter for IRCM applications, Bridger Photonics, Inc., in collaboration with NP Photonics proposes a novel solution for nonlinear frequency conversion of a unique 2.0 micron Thulium fiber laser that will achieve the Navy""s desired laser specifications in a single, compact, and efficient package. This system will capitalize on Bridger""s expertise in nonlinear conversion and the manufacture of MWIR lasers, along with a very attractive emerging nonlinear material to offer, 1) The highest conversion efficiency into the MWIR and LWIR, 2)Continuous, narrowband (<1cm-1), tunability throughout the entire MWIR and LWIR regions of interest, and 3) A flexible, robust, compact form factor nonlinear conversion subsassembly. In addition this system will capitalize on NP Photonics'expertise in the manufacture of fiber lasers and their existing proprietary design for a PRF selectable, high average power, high-peak-power, pulsed 2.0 micron Thulium fiber laser as a pump source for the nonlinear conversion subsystem to offer 1) The highest average power 500kHz Thulium fiber laser that exhibits single frequency, transform-limited, 2.0 ns pulses, 2)Selectable, rapid PRF switching, and 3) An efficient, compact, robust form factor pump subassembly."
DYNAMICALLY PROGRAMMABLE AND ADAPTIVE MULTI-BAND COMPRESSIVE IMAGING SYSTEM,W911NF-13-C-0066,DOD,DOD,STTR,2013,2,416990.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Sandra Reibel,Financial Manager,(406) 585-2774,sandy@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Vice President,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics, Inc. and the University of Arizona have successfully demonstrated a Phase I dynamically programmable multi-band compressive imaging system. The team demonstrated three key technical concepts that prove the feasibility of this powerful technology: 1. Advanced algorithms were used to develop compressive measurement basis sets for imaging and target classification. The algorithms and basis sets were validated experimentally with imaging hardware and mock battlespace scenes. 2. Hardware was developed to perform compressive sensing in two spectral bands simultaneously. Images up to 64 x 128 were formed with nearly 10x compression and target detection was performed. 3. A dynamically programmable processor was implemented to enable rapid switching between system tasks and adaptive measurements. Based on the positive outcome of these demonstrations, the team has determined a Phase II prototype design to meet the Army""s Phase II goals. The Phase II system will produce 2-megapixel images with 10x compression in four spectral bands. In addition, the system will use advanced algorithms to provide jointly optimized image reconstruction and classification/detection. The team""s proven expertise and experience with compressive sensing algorithms, imaging hardware, and rapid prototyping will enable the development of state-of-the-art compressive sensing algorithms and hardware during the Phase II effort."
Rapid and Precise Metrology for Advanced Optical Components,N68936-13-C-0152,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,80000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter Roos,Vice President and CEO,(406) 585-2774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,President and COO,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Under this proposed SBIR effort, Bridger Photonics, Inc. (Bridger) will advance its industry-leading length metrology capabilities to reach sub-10-nanometer precision,>40 Hz update rate,>10 cm measurement range, and sufficient sensitivity to enable measurement of high reflection angles (>5 degrees) on ceramic materials with bulk scattering. Bridger will integrate this metrology system with OptiPro System""s UltraSurf precision stage to enable an order of magnitude improvement in both the manufacturing time and precision compared to existing solutions. This capability will directly lead to increased manufacturing throughput and decreased manufacturing cost. To accomplish these goals the team proposes three technical objectives for the Phase I effort. First, performance enhancements for measuring advanced IR materials will be conducted. Second, Bridger will provide hardware enhancements to allow for faster measurement rates. Bridger will utilize an in-house prototype SLM-M metrology system for testing these proposed enhancements on OptiPro""s UltraSurf system with components provided by the sponsor. Finally, from the lessons learned during this testing, the team will determine the feasibility for incorporating these performance enhancements. During a possible Phase I Option, Bridger will refine the mechanical, electrical and optical design for its SLM-M system in order to incorporate these performance enhancements into future systems."
SBIR Phase I: New Fluorescent Biosensors for Signaling in Living Cells,1248138,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,149423.00,Montana Molecular LLC,619 N. Church Ave,Unit 4,Bozeman,MT,59715-3087,Yes,No,Yes,Anne M. Quinn,,4065397399,amq@montanamolecular.com,Anne M. Quinn,,4065397399,amq@montanamolecular.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will establish the feasibility of developing a genetically-encoded biosensor to monitor levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), an important second messenger component of drug signaling pathways. Unlike existing FRET-based biosensors that depend upon energy transfer between two fluorescent molecules, this sensor will employ a single, circularly permuted fluorescent green protein. This green sensor can be coupled with differently colored biosensors for other second messengers to produce simultaneous readouts for multiple components of a signaling pathway that change when activated by a drug. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project is that multiplex, genetically-encoded assays reporting multiple cell signaling events would expand the depth of knowledge about signal transduction by improving information on the timing, location and pathway cross-talk in physiologically relevant tissues. These assays are homogenous, do not require multiple steps, or cell lysis. A growing trend in the pharmaceutical industry is screening in primary cell cultures, and genetically encoded assays are ideally suited for this. The technology to be developed in this proposal represents a new innovation in fluorescent live-cell assay and has strong potential to reduce the cost and improve the reliability of drug discovery to find safe and effective drugs that provide better treatment outcomes and improved human health."
The Most Efficient (TME) Cold Chain Container for Blood,W81XWH-13-C-0149,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,99980.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Steve Galbraith,Prinicpal Investigator,(406) 497-5252,sgalbraith@resodyn.com,Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop a novel cold chain system with a Lifetime Warranty for the vacuum container. The container composes a passive energy efficient system for transporting blood and pharmaceuticals in hostile environments for up to three days. Capacity is four 500 ml liter blood transfusion bags. Energy efficiency is possible by the novel shape and super insulating qualities proposed. Preliminary work and prior examples demonstrate the merit of prototyping and proving feasibility for the proposed system in Phase I.
Next Generation Boat Hull Impact and Abrasion Proofing,N00024-13-P-4546,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,79996.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Stephen Galbraith,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5223,sgalbraith@resodyn.com,"Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop a single tough thermoplastic polymer coating material and system solution for aluminum and composite boat hulls. The coating functions as an adhesive for attaching doubler plates. It encapsulates and prevents water from corroding metal substrates plus it is hydrophobic and can include corrosion inhibitors and colorant. Basic polymer components are tough thermoplastics which are intrinsically impact resistant and abrasion resistant. Thermoplastic coatings are field repairable using a heat gun. No solvents chemical mixing is required. Technical work entails procuring aluminum and composite test specimens, formulating several different coating materials, test and evaluation. Programmatic work will compare the proposed solution to current practice and estimate a cost benefit to the government. A preliminary experiment and extending Resodyn Corporation""s existing Polymer Thermo Spray technology suggests a high likelihood of success."
Abrasion and Impact Resistant Hydrophobic Thermoplastic Coatings for Aircraft Landing Skis/Skids,FA8501-13-C-0027,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,2,750000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5229,SCoguill@Resodyn.com,"ABSTRACT: Resodyn Corporations proposed Functionalized Polyethylene (FPE) copolymer thermoplastic coating will overcome the shortcomings of the current ski coating. The FPE will provide the long-lasting, low friction, impact-resistant, abrasion resistant and hydrophobic properties required and will also provide hydraulic fluid resistance and reduced drag during wet snow conditions. Enhancements of the FPE material solution have also been demonstrated by the unique hybridization of the FPE materials with specially formulated thermoset materials. The material properties will be evaluated over a wide temperature range (-50aC to 25aC). Resodyn Corporations proprietary Polymer Thermal Spray (PTS) technology and prior experience with thermoplastic and thermoset polymer coatings, specifically hydrophobic coatings, will enable delivery of a successful solution. The complete ski coating process for the LC-130 main and nose skis will be developed including equipment and processes. Coating repair equipment and procedures will be developed that allow on-site spot repairs that are 100% compatible with the original coating. BENEFIT: The LC-130 Hercules is part of a low volume-high demand inventory that can not tolerate a high frequency ski maintenance requirement. The proposed technology provides a durable and functioning coating that, if needed, can be quickly repaired in the field or at the depot with minimum interference to the aircraft operations. The tough, low friction, low drag property attributes of the coating and the unique polymer thermal spray application characteristics allows this technology to be applied to a wide range of military and industrial problems. When handling snow, mud, and water, surfaces coated with the durable Resodyn Corporation product will experience improved slip and shedding properties."
An Advanced NDE Approach to Determine the Adhesive Bond Strength,W911QX-13-C-0038,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2013,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5212,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Peter Lucon,Prinicpal Investigator,(406) 497-5212,PLucon@Resodyn.com,"Bonded composite materials offer considerable opportunity to reduce manufacturing cost, improve structural performance, and improve fuel efficiency of aircraft. However, bonded composite aircraft structures continue to be a challenge to manufacture due to the certification requirement to determine the strength of the bonds in the structures - before they are placed into service. Current testing techniques involve statically loading the structure to some specified load level to place the bond line under load. If the bond does not fail, it is determined to be acceptable and the structure is placed into service. This test method is costly and time consuming. The proposed solution provides a method to test the entire bond at a near uniform shear. If the bond is within specification, the technology would be non-destructive. However, if the bond were weaker than the specified value, the bond would fail. A single bond evaluation procedure will both proof load the bond and detect bond failures. The proposed technology tests the entire bond and not a few points along the bond joint as with laser bond inspection technology. The project would take the technology from inception (TRL 2) to a TRL of 7-8 at the end of the SBIR funding."
Multifunctional Scaffold Agitation Platform,1R43GM105119-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,1,152792.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,,406-497-5252,LCFarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. Mcadams,,406-497-5252,tmcadams@resodyn.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a commercially-viable device that uses micro-scale acoustic streaming (low frequency sound energy) to deliver mixing to the interior of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds used for tissue engineering and other applications. The enabling advantage of low frequency sound energy is the ability to generate micro-scale mixing in and around scaffolds that can enhance the movement of liquid, molecules, and oxygen within scaffolds without the need for pumps or a costly and inconvenient perfusion apparatus for each scaffold. Preliminary data shows that cells can successfully grow in the presence of the acoustic energy field. Nutrient supply issues and difficultiesin homogenously seeding dense tissue engineering scaffolds are issues that need to be overcome in order to successfully produce high quality, repeatable cell cultures in the complex 3D environments that are the mainstay of modern tissue engineering. Manypossible solutions to these problems have been examined, including the use of spinner flask, centrifugal, vacuum fixtures, or perfusion for cell seeding. The vision for the approach proposed here is to develop a single agitation platform on which multiplescaffolds can be mounted in well-plate fixtures to deliver similar benefits as those derived from the perfusion approach but without the significant time and capital investment inherent in the perfusion loop approach. When used at low intensities, the proposed device should be able to deliver benefits similar to a perfusion approach, but in a much simpler package. When used at higher intensities in the absence of cells, additional applications and benefits can be delivered in the form of much more rapid methods for the hydration, functionalization, and enzymatic degradation of scaffolds. The goal of this research proposal is to build a robust working prototype device and to evaluate its utility as a very simple solution for the enhancement of scaffold-basedcell cultures. The commercial applications of the device would be much broad within the field of tissue engineering, extending to the full range of tissues that have shown to be enhanced by more cumbersome perfusion flow-based systems, as well as to basicoperations such as hydrating, functionalizing, and digesting scaffolds. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop and demonstrate a multifunctional Scaffold Agitation Platform that employs a novel agitation method in the form of low-frequency sound energy. By greatly enhance the penetration of liquids, molecules, and cells into the very small pores of natural and artificial scaffolds used for tissue engineering applications, the SAP will provide a low-cost, easy-to-use method of enhancing hydration, seeding, and cellular growth within scaffolds. Better culture performance and cost-savings without the use of complex pumps and tubing will translate to more affordable therapeutic products and better patient outcomes."
Selective MRTF/SRF-Transcription Inhibitors: Novel Anti-fibrotics for IPF,1R43AI106166-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,1,287766.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,Dana E. Warren,,406-864-0022,dana.e.warren@mail.promiliad.com,Nigel D. Priestley,,406-243-6251,nigel.d.priestley@mail.promiliad.co,"DESCRIPTION: Antibiotic resistance among common bacterial pathogens is a serious public health problem as it compromises our ability to treat infectious disease. The resistance problem is compounded by the relative lack of discovery of new antibiotics, especially those with novel mechanisms of action. Over the past several years Promiliad Biopharma has been developing new inhibitors that target the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase as a method of treatment for pathogenic bacteria, fungi and protozoa. Throughour efforts and those of our collaborators, largely funded by STTR grants, we have discovered a class of antifolates characterized by a 2, 4- diaminopyrimidine and a biaryl domain linked through a three-atom propargyl bridge. This class of molecules is animportant lead in the discovery of a new treatment for infectious disease. The current class of compounds, while potent antibacterial agents with activity against antibiotic resistant pathogens, currently lack sufficient metabolic stability. These compounds have short in vivo (and in vitro) half-lives which make progression to lead compound status somewhat difficult. We have found that by substituting a key fragment of the structure with a non-metabolizable bioisostere we can retain potency against a rangeof Gram positive pathogens while greatly improving selectivity and metabolic half-life. The goal of this project is o design, synthesize and assay additional bioisosteric analogs which display similar or better improvements in potency, metabolism and physical properties. Our goal in this Phase I application is to obtain a clear lead candidate. A Phase II project continuing from this work would then conduct IND-enabling experiments with the clear goal of filing an IND application. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The ability to treat infections has become compromised by growing resistance to current antibiotics and has become a serious threat to public health. The significance of the threat is greater as there have been fewer antibiotics being approved for use in recent years and the discovery of a new class of antibiotic is a rare event. By employing medicinal chemistry we have been able to develop a set of second generation folate antibiotics based upon the structure of trimethoprim. These compounds are active against a range of pathogens including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This project seeks to develop a clear lead candidate that will undergo preclinical evaluation with the ultimate goal of entering clinical trials."
Very Wide Bandwidth Radar/EW Components and Characterization,N00024-13-P-4040,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,79831.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Heather Roedel,Operations Manager,(406) 922-0334,roedel@s2corporation.com,Kris Merkel,President/CEO,(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"S2 Corporation and subcontractor Montana State University offer their wideband photonic technologies for signal generation and sensing and a workplan to address the needed novel characterization techniques for passive components operating over very wide bandwidth, at frequencies up to 110 GHz. In the Phase 1 effort, we will develop concepts for very wide bandwidth, very high frequency passive components and characterization techniques and show feasibly developed into a useful product for the Navy."
Hardware Based Broadband Ultra High-speed Digital Signal Processor,FA8650-13-C-1507,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,2,749890.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Heather Roedel,Director of Operations,(406) 922-0334,roedel@s2corporation.com,Kris Merkel,President / CEO,(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"ABSTRACT: S2 Corporation and subcontractor Research Associates of Syracuse aim to develop a broadband hardware-based ultra high-speed signal processor for real time digital, broadband RF spectrum over 2-18 GHz with digital signal stream captures and analysis for a countermeasure applications, and to demonstrate these digital algorithms to significantly advance the tactical capability through complete and immediate knowledge of the full RF spectrum for enhanced spectral situational awareness, with regards to the generally stated DoD goal of controlling the RF spectrum. This approach will mitigate the core problem of wideband digitizing or narrowband channelizers as a unique union of photonic analog signal processing with digital signal results, that will be integrated with proven RF signal processing algorithms and FGPA hardware to provide a real-time capability to detect and measure signals of interest across a broad bandwidth with low latency. BENEFIT: Extreme wideband spectral analysis over bandwidths of 16 GHz demonstrated in operational hardware that can be scaled to>40 GHz, along with signal processing algorithms in real time digital systems that will perform SIGINT functions. The hardware has advantages over a conventional analog to digital converter based solution in all aspects, including performance, size, weight, power and cost."
SBIR Phase II: Photonics Enabled Extreme Bandwidth Wireless Communications Receiver,1330880,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,2,277502.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian D. Merkel,,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Kristian D. Merkel,,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will adapt a photonics based signal processor to propel applications in extreme bandwidth spread-spectrum wireless communications. The signal processor prototype known as the spatial spectral holographic (S2H) extreme bandwidth analyzer / correlator (EBAC) will function as a correlating receiver for low probability of intercept (covert) and interference immune spread-spectrum communications in any radio frequency/millimeter wave (RF/MMW) band. The Phase I effort proof of concept demonstrations showed correlation and demodulation of>4 GHz bandwidth signals with processing gain exceeding 40 dB. The Phase II project will demonstrate continuous transmission signal generation and receiver processing prototype hardware with the ability to demodulate extreme instantaneous bandwidth up to 20 GHz spread-spectrum communications signals with long duration spreading waveforms up to 1 ms, with high data rates (1-1,000 Mb/s), and flexible frequency coverage exceeding 40 GHz. For particular intensive signal processing functions such as spectral analysis and correlation the S2H EBAC analog signal processor demonstrates higher performance and power efficiency than traditional digital signal processing. The intellectual merit of this project is in the advancement of the core technology and application to new real-world applications. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project include opportunities for major academic and commercial developments in communication technology, spectrum analysis, and spectrum enforcement with wide operating bandwidths from 0.5-40 GHz IBW. Initial commercial market would be for spectrum analysis systems with a customer base in electro-magnetic environment testing, tactical DoD next-generation wideband passive surveillance systems, law enforcement surveillance, and intelligence community spectrum sensing. In wireless communications, this technology has the potential extend the reach of spread spectrum communications to new operational paradigms. Beyond communications, commercial applications include test and measurement systems, magnetic resonance imaging, weather radar, earth mapping, navigation, and spectrum use enforcement (the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the U.S.). The enabling technology has commercial, military and intelligence community benefits in the form of geo-location, direction finding, data selection and filtering, navigation, and imaging. With the collaboration with our university partner on this project, we will also support unique applications focused research experience opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students in STEM fields."
SBIR Phase I: High-Bandwidth Photonic Arbitrary Waveform Generation using Low-Bandwidth Spectral Shaping,1249014,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,149968.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Peter B. Sellin,,4069220334,sellin@s2corporation.com,Peter B. Sellin,,4069220334,sellin@s2corporation.com,"NSF SBIR Phase I Proposal 1249014 - Request for Abstract This Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase I project advances arbitrary waveform generation (AWG) capabilities for high bandwidth operation essential in technologies such as telecommunications, test and measurement, remote sensing, and others where higher bandwidths are demanded but cannot be achieved with current electronic devices. This new innovation employs an optical fiber storage ring to interferometrically combine many low-bandwidth input waveforms to synthesize high-bandwidth output waveforms. This technology exploits advances in stable fiber lasers and telecommunications components with hardware comprised of commercial off-the-shelf photonics and low-bandwidth electronics. Prior efforts have successfully demonstrated the device concept and led to one patent pending. This SBIR project addresses fundamental coherence issues through device-engineering that enables bandwidth extension above 25 GHz, and noise reduction in the photonic components, moving this innovative solution towards a viable commercial product. Metrics for success are combined bandwidth, time aperture, and signal fidelity. This photonic method for wideband AWG offers the potential for high bandwidth (>100 GHz), long waveform durations (>10 microseconds), with high fidelity (40 dB SFDR). The broader impact/commercial potential of this project offers the potential for transformative advances in full utilization of the electromagnetic spectrum spanning microwave to terahertz frequencies. In particular, this approach is ideally suited to bridge the technological gap that exists between waveform generation by well-developed continuous AM or PM modulation of individual coherent sources and by proposed methods of controlled synthesis of frequency arrays. This technology provides a unique combination of high spectral resolution, long time aperture, and high bandwidth that has broad application in test and measurement devices, telecommunications, signal processing, and next-generation information technologies that exploit the full information capacity of optical fiber beyond the current capabilities. Generation of agile, complex, wideband optical waveforms can enable new paradigms for free space optical communications, while also applicable to spread spectrum and low probability of intercept applications. This project also aims to investigate fundamental noise issues inherent to repeated re-amplification of coherent optical signals, providing insights directly relevant to meeting the rapidly increasing needs of our modern information age. Furthermore, the coherent optical storage ring technology developed in this project will benefit a number of other potential applications such as wideband spectrum analysis and ultra-high precision characterization of optical oscillators."
Development of a Long Term pH and pCO2 Lagrangian Drifter,WC-133R-13-CN-0107,DOC,NOAA,SBIR,2013,2,399993.00,"Sunburst Sensors, LLC",1226 West Broadway,,Missoula,MT,59802-3915,No,No,Yes,,,,,James C. Beck,CEO/President,(406) 532-3246,jim@sunburstsensors.com,"Quantifying oceanic CO2 uptake and ocean acidification and understanding their impact on global climate and ocean ecology are key goals of NOAAĺs climate change research programs. NOAAĺs request for Development of a long-term Lagrangian pH and pCO2 drifter (SBIR Subtopic 8.3.1C) aims to address these goals by developing technology that measures both pCO2 and pH that can be widely deployed in the worldĺs oceans.
Sunburst Sensors proposes to develop an innovative, reasonably priced pH and pCO2 measurement system for oceanic surface drifters. Indicatorbased opto-fluidic sensors have been designed and fabricated using microfluidic manufacturing techniques. Success in Phase I led to a prototype sensor that will be evaluated and refined. Alternative optical components will be tested and a final opto-fluidic cell will be designed. A modified circuit board, firmware and client software will be developed to control the system and interact with the drifterĺs satellite modem and strain gauge. The system will then be packaged to fit into a Global Drifter Program style drifter.
The total system will be pier tested for two weeks to evaluate performance and ultimately deployed in the ocean from a research vessel, with data collected for the sensor lifetime (~1 year) or until it ceases operation."
SBIR Phase II: Targeted Nanoparticle Delivery Agent for Treatment of Adult Leukemia,1330140,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,2,300000.00,"NanoValent Pharmaceuticals, Inc.",910 Technology BLVD STE G,,Bozeman,MT,59718-4012,No,No,Yes,Jon O. Nagy,,4065868420,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,Jon O. Nagy,,4065868420,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will develop targeted nanoparticle delivery systems capable of delivering conventional cytotoxics preferentially to tumor cells. While therapeutic nanoparticles have been introduced into clinical practice (Abraxane(TM) and Doxil(TM)) and others are in development, none have been developed that show tumor target specificity (as opposed to increased affinity) or deliver multiple therapeutic agents (whether conventional cytotoxic or targeted agents). The hypothesizias underlying this project is that targeted delivery of cancer therapy via highly modular and synthetically robust nanoparticles can improve therapeutic response while minimizing systemic toxic effects of therapy for virtually any cancer. In the Phase I study, the innovation of this approach was demonstrated by dramatically reducing the tumor burden in a transgenic mouse model of adult leukemia with our proprietary nanoparticle agents. The technical objectives in this Phase II proposal are designed to refine and optimize the nanoparticle formulation to treat adult leukemia. This Phase II proposal will enable the completion a critical phase of the preclinical studies for the nanoparticle delivery vehicle to anticipate applying for IND status for this new drug with the FDA. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project offers a great opportunity to add value to nanomaterials. The broader market for nanotech-enabled drug-delivery therapeutics was just over $1 billion in 2010 and is projected to mushroom to $136 billion by the year 2021, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) estimated at 49.96% over the same period. Within the U.S. alone, there are an estimated 274,930 people living with leukemia. In 2011, it is estimated that 44,600 people (25,320 men and 19,280 women) were diagnosed with leukemia, including 10 times as many adults as children and adolescents. Also in 2011, 21,780 of those already afflicted with leukemia were expected to die from the disease. The American Cancer Society projects even higher figures for 2012, estimating that 47,150 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with leukemia and that approximately 23,540 patients will die from it. The nanoparticle delivery system proposed here is well positioned to advance the drug delivery field on a scientific level by demonstrating efficient delivery of therapeutics to leukemia cells. Combined with effective tumor delivery this technology could facilitate highly effective, ?personalized? cancer therapy that is not currently possible with routine systemic therapy."
Biopsy and Freezing of Later-stage Mouse Blastocysts Using the Dracula Pipette,1R41HD075502-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2013,1,106925.00,"GENESEARCH, INC.",14666 HORSE CREEK RD,,BOZEMAN,MT,59715-9661,No,No,No,Paul J. Taylor,,406-686-4723,fidoosh@aol.com,Edward E. Schmidt,,406-994-6375,eschmidt@montana.edu,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Procedures on pre-implantation embryos are a cornerstone of much biomedical research; however in all cases, the procedures are very difficult and delicate, requiring exceptionally skilled technical experts and expensive equipment. The difficulties associated with these procedures often results in most such work being avoided by most biomedical research groups. When it must be performed, it is generally out-sourced to dedicated laboratories or facilities. Two downsides to this are: (1) many important questions are likely avoided due to the cost and difficulty of these procedures; and (2) many unique and potentially valuable mouse lines are likely lost or abandoned because the cost and/or complexity of cryopreservation areprohibitive. GeneSearch, Inc. has developed a novel co-axial embryo manipulation tool that promises to address these issues. The innovative elegance of this tool lies in its simple design, in which, rather than having separate holding and manipulatingpipettes that work at opposite poles of the embryo, the Dracula has the manipulating pipette within the holding pipette. The major advantage is that the manipulating pipette contacts the embryo in a region that is constrained by the regulated forces imparted by the holding pipette. Original prototypes of the tool allowed, for the first time, dramatic advances in cryopreservation of large hatched embryos such as those of the llama and horse. Now, GeneSearch is scaling down the size of the tool, using new materials for some parts, and improving its handling specifically for manipulation of mouse-sized embryos. Phase I of the proposed study aims to optimize the Mouse Dracula tool for mouse embryological procedures including embryo cryopreservation, production of chimeric mice by ES cell injection, and survival-biopsy for genetic analyses. To accomplish this, we have proposed three specific aims, which (1) optimize tool performance, (2) develop improved protocols for mouse embryo cryopreservation, and (3) test the performance of the tool for chimera production and survival-biopsy-based genetic analyses. This is a collaborative research agreement between a Montana-based small business, GeneSearch Inc., and an embryologist/molecular geneticist at Montana State University. The goal of this Phase I STTR project is to prepare the Mouse Dracula tool to move on to Phase II market-oriented development within a one-year period. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Existing methods of mouse embryomanipulation, while allowing generation of chimeric mice for the production of novel genetically modified lines and allowing embryo cryopreservation for long-term maintenance of inactive mouse lines, are highly technically challenging. This, combined withthe high cost of contracting these services, frequently puts these technologies out of reach for most biomedical research labs. A novel embryo manipulation tool, the Dracula Pipette, was developed in recent years by GeneSearch, Inc., for cryopreservationof llama and horse embryos. GeneSearch has now developed prototypes optimized for use with mouse embryos. It is anticipated that this new tool, the Mouse Dracula , will provide an affordable user-friendly system that will empower even the smallest embryology or reproduction labs to generate chimeric mice and cryopreserve embryos. The proposed STTR Phase I project is aimed at final refinement of this tool for mouse embryology and development of efficient protocols based on this tool for mouse embryo cryopreservation and generation of chimeric mice. We anticipate this will be a very beneficial instrument for many biomedical research laboratories. This work will position GeneSearch to enter Phase II, with an aim for production and global distribution of the Mouse Dracula in the near future."
SBIR Phase II: Combining Fungal Metabolites and Fungal Insect Pathogens for Cost Effective Control of Bark Beetles in Forestry,1330100,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,2,255460.00,Montana BioAgriculture Inc.,510 East Kent Ave,,Missoua,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford A. Bradley,,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford A. Bradley,,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project proposes to develop fungal bioinsecticides for control of bark beetles in forestry. Bark beetles are difficult to control. With a life cycle mostly under tree bark, exposure to insecticides is limited to the short period when adults search for new host trees. Control of mountain pine beetle (MPB), one of the most damaging species, is limited to persistent chemical insecticides and pheromone repellents. Health and environmental issues of chemical insecticides limit use; pheromones protect individual trees but do not kill beetles. Phase I discoveries of formulation, application methods, and persistence demonstrated the safe, environmentally benign fungal pathogen Beauveria bassiana can compete in efficacy and cost against chemical insecticides. Natural biochemicals that inhibit boring and increase exposure to pathogen spores show promise for enhanced products. Phase II objectives are: 1) bring one fungal pathogen to commercial introduction; 2) develop improved fungal pathogen strains and/or boring deterrent; 3) isolate pathogen strains for other bark beetles. Field trials will provide the basis for use recommendations in MPB control. New fungal pathogens and continued development of boring deterrents will enable expanded MPB control strategies and development of products against other beetle species. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project, if successful, will be innovative biological approaches to address outbreaks of both native and introduced bark beetles. Outbreaks of unprecedented scale are being driven by climate change and global commerce. Bark beetle outbreaks are devastating forests and urban trees, and impacting timber value, urban land values, and esthetics of forested public land. Phase II will contribute to the understanding of fungal pathogen host range in different genera of bark beetles and in non-target insects. Using fungal or tree derived biochemical boring deterrents to increase fungal pathogen efficacy represents an important technical innovation for developing cost effective, more broadly useful, forestry bioinsecticides. The current MPB outbreak is devastating western forests. Phase II will provide a new tool for protecting trees from MPB attack in high value public recreation areas, private forest land, and urban landscaping. A safe and environmentally benign fungal bioinsecticide will enable new strategies for broader management of MPB. Bark beetles are a large, increasing problem in forestry with multiple outbreaks of native and introduced bark beetles. Phase II will establish the foundation for developing fungal bioinsecticides to effectively respond to this dynamic market."
SBIR Phase I: Direct Conversion of Lignocellulosic Feedstocks to Lipids and High-Value Products using a Proprietary Microbial Process,1248274,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,149848.00,"Sustainable Bioproducts, LLC","920 Technology Blvd., Suite 102",,Bozeman,MT,59718-,No,No,No,Mark A. Kozubal,,4065798383,mkozubal@gmail.com,Mark A. Kozubal,,4065798383,mkozubal@gmail.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project describes a simple, novel and economical process for converting lignocellulosic feedstocks, such as wheat straw, to lipids for conversion to biodiesel and fatty acids for specialty markets (e.g. wax esters, stearic/oleic acids) using a minimal number of steps compared to current technologies. The innovative technology described here is based on the use of a novel microorganism isolated from Yellowstone National Park, which is able to withstand extreme acidic conditions and is capable of efficiently degrading cellulose, lignin and hemicellulose. The organism produces high concentrations of lipids (30-60% of cell volume) in a one-step process when grown aerobically on waste feedstocks in minimal dilute acid medium. The primary objective of this SBIR Phase I is to determine the feasibility of lipid production from various lignocellulosic substrates and determine fatty acid profiles for biofuel production under laboratory scale systems. Additionally, high value commercial products will be evaluated including waxes, biolubricants, and nutraceuticals. Preliminary lab bench studies have shown conversion of wheat straw to lipids ideal for biodiesel at 80g lipid/kg dry weight and the goal of this study is to produce 110 lipids/kg, which cost analysis studies indicate would be competitive with fossil fuels. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project includes the potential for a low cost, simple and effective means for lipids (biofuel precursors) from abundant lignocellulosic substrates. The products produced by the proposed innovative process includes biodiesel, fatty acids for specialty markets, enzymes for biofuel production, and raw material for wood product substitutes and fuel pellets. These products will be sold to biodiesel producers and distributors, petrochemical companies, composite material manufacturers, and fuel pellet manufacturers. Only a few companies and research groups are investigating microbial biodiesel production directly from lignocellulosic waste and, therefore, the scientific community will benefit from this research through a better understanding of direct degradation of lignocellulose materials and production of lipids by microorganisms. Furthermore, research into the growth and metabolisms of the novel microorganism described here will be directly beneficial to researchers studying other lipid producing strains. The success of this one-step technology would have a significant economic impact for the nation by providing a novel route to the production biofuels and biomass based industrial products from renewable sources."
Cetane Sensor for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Propulsion Systems that Operate on Heavy Fuel,FA8650-13-M-2393,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2013,1,150000.00,YELLOWSTONE SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS,"BOX 160183, 3065 CROW KING RD",,BIG SKY,MT,59716-0183,No,No,No,Richard Clarke,President,(406) 995-2535,clarke@bu.edu,Richard Clarke,President,(406) 995-2535,clarke@bu.edu,"ABSTRACT: We propose to develop a lightweight, compact Cetane sensor interfaced to a fiberoptic probe immersed in the RPA fuel tank to continuously measure, update and report Cetane number to the engine electronics for control of engine settings for RPA internal combustion engines (ICE) operating on heavy fuels. The sensor will be based on laser light scattering and will be made small and light enough to be part of the RPA system, able to make real time calculations of the Cetane number of the fuel being utilized. BENEFIT: Success of both Phases of the SBIR program would move the Company rapidly toward the development of a device for jet fuel analysis in the field designed both for commercial markets and for meeting the Air Force specifications for use in the RPA environment."
Novel Prebiotic Fiber as Targeted Dietary Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome,1R43AA022559-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,1,149800.00,YELLOWSTONE SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS,"BOX 160183, 3065 CROW KING RD",,BIG SKY,MT,59716-0183,No,No,No,Richard H. Clarke,,406-995-2535,clarke@bu.edu,Richard Clarke,,406-995-2535,clarke@bu.edu,"DESCRIPTION: We propose to develop a new type of monitor to directly and simultaneously identify multiple biomarker metabolites in persons suspected of having been exposed to alcohol. The technology we plan to utilize is surface-enhanced Raman scattering(SERS), based on a well-known inelastic laser light scattering analytical technique for precise lab identification of organic compounds. Biomarker detectors and biomarker-based tests must be sensitive, reproducible, affordable, transportable, reliable, andthe samples employed in the detectors must be easy to collect and obtain from serum, plasma, urine, saliva, or other sources. The ideal detection device in both cases is one that is small, portable, easy to use and capable of rapid analysis of multiple biomarkers in a clinical setting, with a minimum of false positives and false negatives to avoid wasting resources and missing actual exposure problems. By detecting the presence of the alcohol biomarkers promptly and at emerging concentrations, the alcoholthreat to tissue and internal organs may be identified early in the exposure cycle, expanding treatment options in the population at risk. The proposed research program seeks to utilize SERS spectroscopy for rapid at-site blood, urine or saliva analysis for multiple biomarkers in a single, field-deployable device, bringing the power of the Raman technique in a practical, cost-effective configuration to at-site clinical analysis. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The proposed research program seeks to utilize vibrational spectroscopy for rapid at-site blood, urine or saliva analysis for multiple alcohol biomarkers in a practical, cost-effective monitor suitable for at-site clinical analysis. By detecting the presenceof the alcoholbiomarkers promptly and at emerging concentrations, the alcohol threat to tissue and internal organs may be identified early in the exposure cycle, expanding treatment options in the population at risk."
Iodine Stabilized Seed Laser for Space Applications,NNX13CL40P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2013,1,124998.00,"AdvR, Inc.",MT,,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley McNeil,Senior Laser Systems Engineer,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort proposes to establish the feasibility of leveraging advances in compact laser technology with integration of space qualified techniques into AdvR's Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) and iodine reference cell technology for the design of a space qualifiable, frequency stabilized seed laser system in support of NASA Langley's High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) program. The Phase II effort will focus on space qualifiable systems integration, packaging, and testing of the locked seed laser system under applicable environmental conditions. Successful development of this technology, due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, will enable further uses of the HSRL-based remote sensing system both in current flight-based systems and in future space-based systems."
Using Biomineralization Sealing for Leakage Mitigation in Shale during CO2 Sequestration,DE-FG02-13ER86571,DOE,DOE,STTR,2013,1,150000.00,"Montana Emergent Technologies, Inc.",160 West Granite St.,,Butte,MT,59701-9260,No,No,Yes,Dwight R. Hiebert,Dr.,4064988312,rhiebert@mt-emergent.com,Robin Gerlach,Dr.,4069941840,robin_g@coe.montana.edu,"Montana Emergent Technologies, Inc., (MET) in conjunction with the Center for Biofilm Engineering at Montana State University, proposes to investigate the feasibility of using biomineralization-based technology to seal unwanted leakage pathways relative to carbon dioxide stored in deep geologic formations. The title of this Small Business Technology Transfer Research Phase I project is Using Biomineralization Sealing for Leakage Mitigation in Shale during CO2 Sequestration. The Principal Investigator for this project, Dr. Robin Gerlach, is a world-renowned leader in biomineralization technology. This Phase I STTR proposal deals with Topic 17a, Carbon Storage Technologies/Advanced Geologic Storage Technologies. The implementation of this technology will allow the Nation to store CO2 underground for many years with less danger of it leaking back to the surface. MET proposes a method of mitigating leakage or re-plugging abandoned wells at CO2 storage sites. These sites are of high potential interest to prevent leakage of CO2 injected for geologic carbon sequestrationparticularly in geologic formations where large numbers of abandoned wells are present. Estimates of abandoned wells in the U.S and abroad range in the millions, all of which have a high probability of leaking. While CO2 resistant cements and ultrafine cements are being developed, technologies that can be delivered via low viscosity fluids could have significant advantages including the ability to plug small aperture leaks such as fractures or delamination interfaces. Additionally the method can be used to plug rock formation pore space around the wellbore in particularly problematic situations. Current technologies for sealing leaking CO2 sequestration sites, such as fine cement injection, have disadvantages and the DOE is looking for effective alternatives. Our technological solution is based on microbial biofilms that are capable of inducing the precipitation of crystalline calcium carbonate using the process of ureolysis. This method has the potential to reduce formation permeability and lower the risk of unwanted upward CO2 migration. Prior research by our team in this field has been limited to the study of sandstone-based geologic formations. MET has become aware of needs expressed by leading oilfield service companies to target the biomineralization sealing technology in formations composed of shale. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits Montana Emergent Technologies will commercialize this novel biomineralization technology to seal leakage pathways in fractured shale formations around well bores for CO2 sequestration. It will not only increase the long-term security of carbon dioxide sequestration, but also gives the oil industry another tool to economically seal leaking wells that might become an environmental problem."
Inhibition of retinoic acid metabolism for reversal of cognitive deficits in AD,1R41AG046987-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2013,1,225000.00,"DERMAXON, LLC",6610 JUSTIN CT,,MISSOULA,MT,59803-2969,Yes,No,No,Fanny A. Diax,,832-677-3756,fanny_diaz2008@yahoo.com,Fanny Astruc-diaz,,406-243-4354,fanny_diaz2008@yahoo.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and ultimately fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects more than five million people in the USA. Currently there is no cure for AD. Available medicines are aimed only at temporarily reducing symptoms and slowing down the progression of the disease. While many new compounds have been developed to treat AD, they have not been successful in clinical studies and consequently there is a great need for development of new therapeutic strategies. Recent data show that retinoic acid (RA) plays an important role in maintaining neuronal plasticity, and learning and memory in human or in transgenic animal model of AD, and support our hypothesis that increasing RA in the brain will improve AD patient outcomes. However, RA has poor pharmacokinetics in humans and it induces its own clearance resulting in loss of activity during long-term use. In this STTR effort, Dermaxon will use inhibition of RA clearance, instead of treatment with RA itself as a novel therapeutic strategy to treat or prevent progression of cognitive impairments associated with AD. The clearance of RA is predominantly mediated by cytochrome P450 family 26 enzymes (CYP26) of which there are three isoforms: CYP26A1, CYP26B1and CYP26C1. While CYP26A1 appears to be the human liver RA hydroxylase, CYP26B1 is predicted to be responsible for RA metabolism in extrahepatic tissues and CYP26C1 appears to prefer 9cis-RA as a substrate. In preliminary studies, different chemotypes with a nanomolar IC50 at CYP26A1 and/or CYP26B1 have been identified. Such a novel class of compounds is expected to be highly specific for the different CYP26 isoforms, thereby avoiding side effects and non-target P450 inhibition associated with previouslydescribed CYP26 inhibitors. Dermaxon's goal is to develop the next generation of novel selective inhibitors of CYP26, to increase RA concentration in the brain, and to treat memory impairment associated with AD. Using our previously discovered lead structures, we will first generate a series of new compounds with improved CYP26 inhibition potency and selectivity. We will then evaluate their pharmacokinetic properties in mice as well as their efficacy in rescuing memory deficits in the AD mouse model PS1-APP. By the end of this Phase I STTR, Dermaxon will have identified a candidate compound that selectively targets CYP26B1 and also provide evidence that these compounds exhibit in vivo efficacy in rescuing the memory deficit in AD mouse model. In the Phase II of this STTR project we will initiate FDA discussions and complete pre-clinical studies required to file an Investigational New Drug Application (IND) to initiate clinical studies. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Demaxon hasoutlined a strategy for developing novel inhibitors of CYP26 enzymes that are responsible for the clearance of retinoic acid, as a therapeutic approach to improve learning and memory in Alzheimer's disease patients. In America alone, more than five million patients currently suffer from Alzheimer's disease or some form of dementia and this figure is expected to jump to 13.8M by 2050 with the associated cost of long- term care services reaching 1.2 trillion a year. The outcome of this STTR Phase I will validate CYP26 as druggable target for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease and generate data necessary to develop the most promising CYP26 inhibitor as a new approach to treating Alzheimer's disease."
SBIR Phase I: Feasibility of US Grown Bamboo Fiber Processing for Use in Reinforced Composites,1315864,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,149982.00,Gradient Engineering,190 Mountain Brook Rd.,,Livingston,MT,59047-8941,No,No,No,William W. Riddle,,4065824981,triddle@gradienten.com,William W. Riddle,,4065824981,triddle@gradienten.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will address the three major factors currently limiting the global production of bamboo fibers for composites. First, all natural fibers absorb water from the air and direct contact from the environment. Second, the strength of natural fiber composites is less than that of composites reinforced with glass fibers. Part of this reduced strength is a result of the poor bonding between the fiber and the resin matrix. The labor-intensive raw material processing requirements constitute a third factor which inhibits the US in particular from developing a bamboo industry. All three of these issues will be addressed through a novel fiber extraction and treatment process. Development of bamboo fiber reinforcements will advance the state-of-the-art for plant fiber products. Additional significant innovative aspects of this process lie in the assessment of a bamboo species capable of being grown in the US, automation of raw bamboo processing, utilization of waste products for neutralization of treatment wastewater and implementation of a fully optimized multi-step material functionalization process. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project will be an increased usage of sustainable materials, increased revenue for US agriculture, increased domestic and international sales of a new and innovative product line, and additional jobs in support of research, manufacturing, and sales of bamboo fiber-reinforced composites. Bamboo in particular can provide manufacturers with a reduced-cost reinforcing material that has similar specific mechanical properties to fiberglass. An untapped market exists for the use of Bamboo fibers as reinforcements in compounded thermoplastics and as fiber reinforcement material in thermoset composites. The development of a novel processing technique will enable the team to capitalize on this market by supplying products which can compete with traditional fiberglass. This process will support the birth of an entirely new industry that expands US agriculture and encourages global distribution of US-manufactured, environmentally friendly products. Moreover, increases in Bamboo cultivation as result of these new products will help mitigate adverse environmental impacts and improve public health. This will be done by the inherent sequestration of carbon dioxide in the plant growth cycle, and a reduction in the pollution associated with the use of high-energy fiber processing techniques."
"Remediation of soil and water contaminated with phenolic compounds using peroxidase from the biofuel crop, Camelina sativa",2013-00442,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2013,1,100000.00,"MONTANA GLUTEN FREE PROCESSORS, LLC",170 ANDREA STE 24,,Belgrade,MT,59714-8945,No,No,No,Gary Iverson,General Manager,406-450-1106,giverson@montanaglutenfree.com,Gary Iverson,,406-450-1106,giverson@montanaglutenfree.com,"23. Non-Technical Summary Phenolic and aromatic pollutants are commonly released into soils, water and the atmosphere from industrial, agricultural and human processes. Such pollutants include chlorophenols, creosote, and endocrine & #8208;disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as estrogen and bisphenol A. Phenols and aromatics are absorbed by inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. They can cross the human placenta and have been found in breast milk. Many of these pollutants are toxic and carcinogenic. Current methods (microbial degradation, adsorption to activated carbon, chemical oxidation, incineration, extraction, UV exposure) to remove phenolic and aromatic contaminants are expensive, time & #8208;consuming and only moderately effective. A number of recent studies have clearly demonstrated that plant peroxidases can be used to remove/deactivate phenolic and aromatic compounds in polluted soils and water. The bulk of this research was done using crude or purified horseradish peroxidase. Although effective, the cost and availability of horseradish has precluded wide & #8208;scale implementation of the technology. Camelina sativa, a European oilseed that is now being produced across the arid High Prairies of the West, is an economic and abundant source of peroxidases. Camelina oil can be used for production of quality biodiesel. To date, wide & #8208;scale production of camelina for biofuel has been limited by the marginal profitability of the crop to the farmer. However, camelina oil only accounts for 30% of the crop yield whereas camelina meal, the subject of this proposal, accounts for the other 70% and is generally considered a byproduct. The meal does has value as a feed ingredient. We propose that the meal has even more value as a source of the peroxidase enzyme and can be used for rapid and cost & #8208;effective remediation of hazardous phenolic and aromatic pollutants in both soil and water"
"OTHER FUNCTIONS TOPIC 255, PHASE II, TARGETED TWO-PHOTON PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY TRIADS",N44CO120093,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,2,1499896.00,"SENSOPATH TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",920 Technology Blvd,STE B,BOZEMAN,MT,59718-4001,Yes,No,No,Charles Spangler,,406-587-6338,CHARLES.SPANGLER@SENSOPATH.COM,Charles Spangler,,406-587-6338,CHARLES.SPANGLER@SENSOPATH.COM,"The objectives of this proposal are to further preclinical development of unique two-photon-activated photodynamic therapy (TPPDT) triads that incorporate a nontoxic porphyrin photosensitizer, a tumor targeting group, and an imaging functionality, providing for noninvasive image-guided treatment of recurrent and refractory head and neck tumors deep below the skin surface that currently have low survival rates and few treatment options. SensoPath Technologies will develop a detailed understanding of the dosimetry of the process, involving the interplay of targeting the receptor on the tumor surface, the delivery of pulsed near infrared (NIR) laser light in the range 800-840 nm, the method of drug delivery with optimized concentration, and the role of oxygen level in the tumor s blood supply. Image-guided TPPDT, in which the irradiation of the tumor is controlled by its digitized image throughout the 3D volume of the tumor, will define and incorporate optical tumor margins to ensure that the entire tumor is treated. Planned image-defined tumor treatment in tissue phantoms and xenograft SCID mouse models will provide the information necessary to effectively treat deep spontaneous head and neck tumors in companion canines as an out-patient low-cost model for humanclinical treatment with rapid recovery, little scarring and no post-PDT light sensitivity."
Modulated Pulsed Source for Microwave Photonic Lidar Applications,N68335-12-C-0132,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,749977.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,(406) 522-0388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,Principal Investigator,(406) 522-0388,battle@advr-inc.com,"This Navy Phase II SBIR effort will develop a packaged, high-speed optical amplitude modulator for use with a high-power, pulsed, blue laser that is being developed for lidar-based detection, ranging, and tracking of underwater objects in an ocean environment. While it is well known that laser sources in the blue/green spectral region increase the achievable range in ocean and coastal environments, only recently have researchers been able to show that the use of RF modulated macro-pulses combined with RF coherent detection can lead to an increase in system sensitivity and target contrast. The increased contrast between target and backscattered signal results because the modulated component of the backscattered signal is significantly reduced due to the random distribution of the scattering elements in a turbid media. The macro-pulse modulators developed under this effort will enable laboratory testing to determine optimal modulation rates for a given set of turbidity conditions as well as enable system level, non-laboratory verification of performance improvements when using modulated macro-pulsed lidar."
Miniature Air Launched Rawinsonde and Dropsonde (MALRD),FA9302-12-M-0001,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,149841.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,(406) 994-9354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,(406) 994-9354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"ABSTRACT: Accurate, in-situ meteorological data are an essential part of any flight-test program or airborne weapon test. Present methods to gather such data are subject to drawbacks including spatial inaccuracy, asset availability, and simple inefficiency. An in-situ radiosonde system capable of deployment from nearly any military aircraft would solve this problem, by allowing for the spatially precise deployment of sensors in the test airspace without placing any undue burden on other range assets or requiring additional flight time from the test aircraft. The proposed solution is centered on the MALRD (Miniature Air Launched Rawinsonde and Dropsonde). This device will be compatible with common countermeasures dispensing systems and be capable of operation as either a dropsonde or upsonde (rawinsonde). It will measure meteorological variables including pressure, temperature, relative humidity, and winds, and return the data to either aircraft- or ground-based receivers. Phase I work will involve developing designs for upsonde, dropsonde, and combined variants of the MALRD. Key enabling technologies will be tested in the laboratory. Phase II work will involve building MALRD prototypes and conducting live flight tests. BENEFIT: The market need being addressed by this technology is the need to obtain meteorological data at a precise point in space and time. An aircraft-deployable sonde can be precisely deployed unlike any other in-situ sensor. The MALRD will have applications in both test and operational scenarios for all branches of the military. Derivatives of the MALRD may be deployed from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, rockets, artillery shells, or other precision delivery methods. A radiosonde derived from the MALRD could be used as a ruggedized radiosonde for surface launches as well."
Nanoparticle Defense for Agrichemical Exposures,1R43ES022125-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,158919.00,"ATERIS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",910 Technology Blvd STE G,,Bozeman,MT,59718-,No,No,No,Charles M. Thompson,,406-549-0675,charles.thompson@ateristech.com,Jon O. Nagy,,406-586-8420,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Phase I SBIR project seeks to develop specialized protein-polymer nanoparticles that are engineered to a therapeutic drug to counter the ill effects following exposure to organophosphate (OP) insecticides. The concept for these nanoparticles is based on 'customized, triggered-release' in which the membrane of a polymerized liposome nanoparticle (PLN) displays functional acetylcholinesterase, the primary target for OPs, while a therapeutic cargo is encapsulated (e.g., oxime). During an OP exposure, the AChE is inhibited (the same as exogenous ChE) to cause protein changes that later the polymeric nanoparticle membrane allowing the oxime cargo (various mechanisms possible) to be released and immediately available to restore exogenous ChE. Because the PLNs are customized and specific to OPs, PLN-AChE nanoparticles will not produce unwanted, high concentrations of the therapeutic agents in the body without OP exposure. In this application, we will develop and subsequentlyshow that AChE-PLNs can be generated with functional enzyme and are selectively inhibited by organophosphates (OP). We will further demonstrate that small molecule cargo can be loaded and stored in functional AChE-PLNs that reaction with OPs releases theentrapped cargo. We will produce 25 mg each of three functional, intact ChE-PLNs in readiness for the Phase II portion of this RandD project. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Citizens can be exposed to organophosphate (OP) insecticides via domestic application, aerial spraying, crops, as a pediculicide, and through the food chain. Accidental exposure to OP- containing pesticides can cause many tiers of toxicity, injury or be fatal to humans. For decades, only high-level exposures to OPs receive medical attention because low, chronic exposures have gone unchecked largely because they can asymptomatic, usually manifesting illnesses through accumulated exposures. If therapeutic measures could be available through a preventative process and highly specific toward OP exposures, a reduction in short- and long- term ill health effects could be expected."
SBIR Phase I: Combining fungal metabolites and fungal insect pathogens for cost effective control of bark beetles in forestry,1142411,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2012,1,149640.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford A. Bradley,,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford A. Bradley,,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will establish proof of concept for enhancing fungal bioinsecticide to control bark beetles, important forestry pests. Although research shows potential of fungal insect pathogens as bark beetle bioinsecticides, no commercial products have been developed. The short exposure time of adults, inaccessibility of larvae, and limited time to kill before irreversible tree damage makes control difficult. Innovation to overcome these barriers comes from understanding complex interactions between beetles and fungi. Phase 1 will establish technical, economic, and regulatory feasibility of combining fungal pathogens with fungal metabolites that inhibit beetle boring behavior. Inhibiting boring would increase efficacy by increasing exposure time of beetles to fungal pathogen spores. Research will define baseline efficacy of the fungal pathogen; identify fungal metabolites that act as boring deterrents; determine commercially scalable production process for selected metabolites; and assess regulatory requirements. The broader/commercial impacts of this research are a cost effective, safe and environmentally benign bio-insecticide with substantial commercial potential to replace chemical insecticides now used to protect high value trees and to expand control strategies where chemical insecticides are too expensive or limited by environmental impact. A climate change exacerbated outbreak of mountain pine beetle (MPB) is devastating western United States and Canadian pine forests, severely impacting to economic and recreational value. The time and cost required to develop a commercial product is favorable as MMP will combine boring inhibitors with an EPA approved, commercially available fungal strain with demonstrated pathogenicity to MPB."
Environmentally Friendly Low Friction Coating for Concrete Barriers,DTRT57-12-C-10043,DOT,DOT,SBIR,2012,1,150000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President & CEO,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Suni Kulkarni,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5225,suni.kulkarni@resodyn.com,"Resodyn Corporation is proposing a material and application system that will create a low friction coating on concrete median barriers. The advanced material developed for the low friction coating is an affordable, tough, weather resistant, and environmentally friendly copolymer. The proposed application concept is for truck mounted equipment that enables a
single pass application of the coating which is then immediately ready for service and avoids traffic delays.
The proposed coating will significantly reduce friction between concrete barriers and colliding vehicles and, therefore, reduces the tendency for a vehicle tire to climb the barrier, which could result in a severe rollover crash. The proposed Phase I effort combines material development and testing tasks with a novel application technique that allows for rapid application. The application approach enables in-place coating, is solvent free, and is easily
repairable. The coating application technology and coatings will be configured to be applied using a truck mounted/automated application system, mirroring the design and operation of conventional highway stripping equipment."
Abrasion and Impact Resistant Hydrophobic Thermoplastic Coatings for Aircraft Landing Skis/Skids,FA8501-12-P-0062,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"ABSTRACT: The current polyurethane based coatings on the landing skis/skids of US Air Force aircraft require frequent maintenance due to exposure to extreme conditions. A long-lasting, low-friction, hydrophobic, impact and abrasion resistant coating on the landing ski/skids is highly desired to ensure the ski/skid equipped aircraft can continue to meet their unique mission requirement. Resodyn Corporation proposes a material solution in the form a nanocomposite thermoplastic polymer coating that, in addition to addressing issues with the current coatings, will impart novel features, such as easy and fast in-field repair, hydrophobicity and self-healing properties to the coating. Resodyn Corporation""s Polymer Thermal Spray technology and Resonant Acoustic Mixing technology will enable delivery of a successful solution. BENEFIT: The proposed hydrophobic material solution will lead to a long lasting thermoplastic coating on aircraft landing skis/skids. Maintenance can be performed in-field, simply by heat sealing the damaged areas. The novel morphology of the proposed coating will impart superior impact and abrasion resistance not shown by typical thermoplastic materials."
Repair and Restore Polymer Thermal Spray Coating and Application System,N00024-12-C-4142,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,749976.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5229,SCoguill@resodyn.com,"The U.S. Navy seeks an in-situ powder coating material and application method for spot repair. Resodyn Corporation proposes a unique restoration and repair polymer thermal spray coating (R & RPTS) system that provides the ease of repair, safety in handling, and effective coating protection to fulfill the U.S. Navy needs. The proposed system will be a zero VOC, non-toxic, non-chromated material with the potential for substantially lower zinc loading then is required by conventional anti-corrosion coatings. The coating and application system are not limited by repair area size or thickness of desired coating. The proposed material has an indefinite storage and working pot life with no cure time and temperature restrictions. The R & RPTS approach is not limited by arcing to a grounded substrate or Faraday cage effects, nor is there any coating degradation due to flame. During Phase I Resodyn Corporation successfully demonstrated the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed material and material application approach."
Non-Contact Sensor Technology to Locate Electromagnetic Grids in Ceramics,W31P4Q-12-C-0097,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,730000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Stephen Galbraith,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5223,sgalbraith@resodyn.com,"Electromagnetic grid structures buried in optical ceramic domes may be accurately located using an electromagnetic sensing and detection techniques. Under the Phase I effort, Resodyn Corporation developed a sensor and detection technology that demonstrated position location to within 1 mil is possible. Competing technologies such as capacitive, optical, or sonic lack a key advantage the electromagnetic approach offers - optical ceramic, cutting fluids, dust, and surface conditions are electromagnetically transparent. In a manufacturing environment the sensing technology can be used to direct grinding and polishing machine operations, real-time, where to locate dome surfaces with respect to the buried grid. In a metrology environment the technology can be integrated with a coordinate measuring machine. Under the Phase II effort, Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop two useful prototypes. The first is a low-cost tabletop tool that will locate grid depth from the surface of a dome. The second is a higher cost hybrid sensor that combines the electromagnetic sensor for grid location with a laser sensor for dome surface location. The hybrid sensor could be used with a variety of manufacturing equipment."
Artificial Accessory Cell Platform for Stem Cell Culture,1R43GM100524-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,427750.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,,406-497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Todd A. Mcadams,,406-497-5252,TMcAdams@Resodyn.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop and demonstrate a broad-application prototype Artificial Accessory Cell that can be used as a supplement and/or replacement for cytokines for the directed differentiation of stem cells into desired lineages. While the technology is applicable to all types of stem cells for which some information on its biological niche is available, the initial technology demonstration and suite of products will be focused on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) because of the extensive knowledge and range of cytokines available for this well-studied system. Immobilization of biologically active factors is essential to achieving the goal of efficiently directing stem cells along desired pathways for therapeutic aims. In vivo, many important cytokines are presented in membrane-bound, or extra-cellular matrix (ECM)- bound forms[1]. Presentation in this format often induces a unique biological response on the effectors cell thatcannot be duplicated using soluble forms of the molecule. In addition, this strategy may be effective for limiting the quantity of expensive signaling molecules necessary for large-scale production of differentiated cells, such as the production of red blood cells for transfusion in an ex vivo format. While other investigators have developed much alternative chemistry for the covalent binding of cytokines to various types of substrates, the focus of this project is to develop and validate a stable, consistent, and commercializable microsphere-based system that can be applied as easily as soluble cytokines. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop and demonstrate the use of Artificial Accessory Cells(AACs) to help guide and control the differentiation of stem cells for therapeutic applications. In order to effectively scale-up and reduce the costs of bringing stem cell therapies to the clinic, more efficient means of providing the growth factors needed to guide stem cells are needed. Use of the proposed AACs has the potential to increase the efficacy and stability of these factors while reducing the costs for large-scale stem cell differentiation."
STTR Phase I: Photonics Enabled Extreme Bandwidth Wireless Communications Spectrum Manager,1217637,NSF,NSF,STTR,2012,1,150000.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian D. Merkel,,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Kristian D. Merkel,,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to use and adapt a photonics based extreme bandwidth RF and Microwave spectrum analyzer as a real-time spectral manager for wireless communication systems. The approach is enabled by a spatial-spectral holographic based spectrum analyzer developed by the STTR team that can have instantaneous processing bandwidth of 40 GHz or greater while retaining with high spectral resolution and low latency (<<1 ms) output. This sensor hardware will be applied to wideband, real-time spectral management of wireless communications for operation in environments with new spectral access regulatory models. When combined with low latency digital processing, using specialized digital signal processing hardware such as field programmable gate arrays and appropriate databases and software, the system will allow continuous and simultaneous monitoring of all common wireless communication bands for rapid distribution of channel occupancy data. Project activities include: identifying the physical measurements and spectral signatures needed for wideband spectrum management, implementing specialized computer based algorithms to extract this information for real-time management, and investigating advanced spatial-spectral optical signal processing architectures to automatically recognize wireless signal characteristics such as modulation formats that are beyond the current power spectrum measurement capability. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project includes uses in commercial wireless communication systems, RF test and measurement, defense signal intelligence and communications, regulatory spectrum management, and navigation and geo-location applications. The first commercial impact is to enable dynamic identification and allocation of unused spectral resources in real time, in order to maximize the efficiency and increase the capacity of wireless networks. The large bandwidth and frequency scalability of the spatial-spectral sensor technology could assist the growth of emerging radio communication technologies in existing bands, and in emerging bands such as E-band. Additionally, this technology could assist governmental spectrum regulatory compliance enforcement, which could help to lead to changes in spectrum allocation policy. Increased wireless capacity will help to enhance access to broadband internet access, including to poor or rural areas, where the capital costs of implementing physical infrastructure like fiber optic lines is cost prohibitive (evidenced by the developing world's use of cellular phones over landlines). Beyond communications, RF monitoring has several applications ranging from electronic defense, to navigation and geo-location."
SBIR Phase I: Photonics Enabled Extreme Bandwidth Wireless Communications Receiver,1143361,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2012,1,149844.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian D. Merkel,,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Kristian D. Merkel,,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will use and adapt a photonic signal processor for extreme bandwidth spread spectrum wireless communications. The intellectual merit of the proposed project focuses on applying prior knowledge and the core photonic analog optical signal processing technology with new approaches and extensions of spread spectrum techniques to an important emerging commercial application, namely high bandwidth wireless communication at high frequencies. The widespread demand for wireless communication has created contention for RF spectrum, and has motivated extending communications to unlicensed bands and higher frequencies. The objectives of the project are to 1) perform transmitter analysis and encoding schemes, 2) to show spread spectrum communication functionality in laboratory hardware based demonstrations over the frequencies of 3.1-10.6 GHz, and 3) to study desired parameters and tradeoffs for the implementation and commercialization of communications links. The anticipated results of the research are demonstrations that show these capabilities, with increased knowledge of the requirements and tradeoffs of the proposed technique. The broader impact / commercial potential of this project are in the field of wideband, wireless communications. From this technology development effort, there are significant market opportunities for the emerging 60-90 GHz E band wireless market. The enabling photonic signal processing technology has applicability for commercial, military and intelligence community in the form of full spectrum surveillance, spectrum analysis, direction finding, navigation, and imaging, along with the proposed communications approach proposed. Benefits of the proposed communication approach include transmissions at high data rates, asynchronous burst mode operation, providing secure, low probability of intercept transmissions and overcoming multipath issues."
Hardware Based Broadband Ultra High-speed Digital Signal Processor,FA8650-12-M-1315,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,149852.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Heather R. Roedel,Director of Operations,(406) 922-0334,roedel@s2corporation.com,Kristian D. Merkel,President / CEO,(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"ABSTRACT: S2 Corporation and subcontractor Research Associates of Syracuse aim to develop a broadband hardware based ultra high-speed signal processor for real time digital, broadband RF spectrum signal stream captures at greater than 10 GSPS for a countermeasure applications, and demonstrate digital algorithms to significantly advance the tactical capability through complete and immediate knowledge of the full RF spectrum for enhanced spectral situational awareness, with regards to the generally stated DoD goal of controlling the RF spectrum. This approach will mitigate the core problem of wideband digitizing as a unique union of photonic analog signal processing with digital results in real time, that will be integrated with proven RF signal processing algorithms and FGPA hardware to provide a real-time capability to detect and measure signals of interest across a broad bandwidth with low latency. BENEFIT: Extreme wideband spectral analysis over bandwidths of 4 GHz or greater delivered in operational hardware that can be scaled to>20 GHz, along with signal processing algorithms in real time digital systems that will perform SIGINT functions. The hardware has advantages over a conventional analog to digital converter based solution in all aspects, including performance, size, weight, power and cost."
Extreme Wideband Spectral Analysis and Direction Finding based on an Spatial Spectral Holographic Signal Processor,N00014-12-M-0152,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,150000.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Heather Roedel,Operations Manager,(406) 922-0334,roedel@s2corporation.com,Kris Merkel,President / CEO,(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"Navy electronic support (ES) functions require receivers making true wideband RF / microwave measurements on transient & frequency hopping signals over 1-40 GHz and beyond, including spectral mapping (SM) and direction finding (DF) with low latency. Wideband digitizers in RF/Microwave receivers are expensive, create ~50 Gs/s of data to be handled in real time by large computer systems, and have insufficient performance over wideband stares for Naval operations. The S2 Corp extreme bandwidth analyzer and correlator (EBAC) hardware is an RF / microwave receiver capable of SM and DF to be improved and tested on this effort. The EBAC is comprised of RF / microwave, photonic, cryogenic and electronic / digital components. RF signals are optically modulated at the antenna and fiber optically connected to other receiver components. On this program, we aim to improve the performance of our hardware, and field test it to demonstrate the capabilities. The technical goals for both SM and DF hardware in laboratory and field tests is over 16 GHz bandwidth, 60 dB spur free dynamic range, ~2 ms reconfiguration latency, variable frame rate from 2-200 kHz, variable resolution bandwidth from 0.04-10 MHz, and direction finding accuracy of"
Extreme Wideband Spectral Analysis and Direction Finding based on an Spatial Spectral Holographic Signal Processor,N00014-12-C-0292,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,1954347.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Heather Roedel,Operations Manager,(406) 922-0334,roedel@s2corporation.com,Kris Merkel,President / CEO,(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"Navy electronic support (ES) functions require receivers making true wideband RF / microwave measurements on transient & frequency hopping signals over 1-40 GHz and beyond, including spectral mapping (SM) and direction finding (DF) with low latency. Wideband digitizers in RF/Microwave receivers are expensive, create ~50 Gs/s of data to be handled in real time by large computer systems, and have insufficient performance over wideband stares for Naval operations. The S2 Corp extreme bandwidth analyzer and correlator (EBAC) hardware is an RF / microwave receiver capable of SM and DF to be improved and tested on this effort. The EBAC is comprised of RF / microwave, photonic, cryogenic and electronic / digital components. RF signals are optically modulated at the antenna and fiber optically connected to other receiver components. On this program, we aim to improve the performance of our hardware, and field test it to demonstrate the capabilities. The technical goals for both SM and DF hardware in laboratory and field tests is over 16 GHz bandwidth, 60 dB spur free dynamic range, ~2 ms reconfiguration latency, variable frame rate from 2-200 kHz, variable resolution bandwidth from 0.04-10 MHz, and direction finding accuracy of"
Development of a Long Term pH and pCO2 Lagrangian Drifter,WC-133R-12-CN-0063,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2012,1,94998.00,"Sunburst Sensors, LLC",1226 West Broadway,,Missoula,MT,59802-3915,No,No,Yes,,,,,James Beck,,(406) 532-3246,jim@sunburstsensors.com,"Quantifying oceanic CO2 uptake and ocean acidification and understanding their impact on global climate and ocean ecology are key goals of NOAAĺs climate change research programs. NOAAĺs request for Development of a long-term Langrangian pH and pCO2 drifter aims to address these goals by developing technology that measures both pCO2 and pH that can be widely deployed in the worldĺs oceans.
Sunburst Sensors proposes to develop an innovative pH and pCO2 prototype sensor based on the patented technology of its SAMI sensors. We will determine the feasibility of a new compact, cost-effective sensor design that can reliably measure both quantities with the required accuracy and precision.
We will investigate two innovations that will significantly simplify and reduce the cost of our current sensors. First, we will combine the optics and flow cell using microfluidics techniques, resulting in a compact, inexpensive, modular sensor. Second, we will use a single reagent for both pCO2 and pH measurements in a single system.
Phase I will culminate with a design based on the success of these innovations. This design will be refined and integrated into a surface float with satellite telemetry and become available as a commercial product in Phase II."
Fault Management Assistant (FMA),NNX12CE70P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2012,1,123501.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur Molin,Business Official,2817091079,amolin@ska-llc.com,Carroll Thronesbery,Principal Investigator,2817091073,cthronesbery@ska-llc.com,"S & K Aerospace (SKA) proposes to develop the Fault Management Assistant (FMA) to aid project managers and fault management engineers in developing better and more cost-effective fault management (FM) for new systems. The Phase I effort involves establishing an FM approach and architecture and designing a tool that supports them. It will also include a feasibility prototype of the tool. The primary source of information for the approach and architecture is the NASA FM Handbook, which represents a collaboration of ideas from a number of NASA and non-NASA centers. SKA also intends to consider risk management, including Risk Informed Decision Making (RIDM) and Continuous Risk Management (CRM). Risk management concepts could help to support the cost-effective allocation of resources to FM options. They should also help with the balancing of costs from development, operations, and adverse outcomes from system failures. A detailed data model will help to ensure that engineers develop a complete description of FM. Specialized views of the FM information will ensure that analyses and questions can be effectively addressed during the course of FM development. SKA intends to build on its success with a risk management system it is currently building for the Human Research Project."
SBIR Phase I: Targeted Nanoparticle Delivery Agent for Treatment of Adult Leukemia,1143342,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2012,1,149848.00,"NanoValent Pharmaceuticals, Inc.",910 Technology BLVD STE G,,Bozeman,MT,59718-4012,No,No,Yes,Jon O. Nagy,,4065868420,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,Jon O. Nagy,,4065868420,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to explore the application of a targeted nanodelivery system for both treatment and efficacy monitoring in patients with adult leukemia. Unlike solid tumors, for which surgery, radiation, and conventional treatments are an option, leukemias are cancers of the blood, which have very poor prognosis due to the fact that they are disseminated diseases from inception. In this project, the targeted and drug-filled nanoparticle will be optimized for effective tumor killing in cell culture, followed by validation using established in-vivo methods for adult leukemia in a mouse model. It is expected that this targeted nanodelivery system will increase the therapeutic window and minimize systemic therapy related toxicity, demonstrating the superior margin of safety compared to the standard methods for treatment. The broader/commercial impact of this project will be the potential to provide a technology that is capable of delivering a wide array of drug molecules (hydrophilic and hydrophobic) or drug cocktails using multiple tissue targeting ligands. The specific focus of this project is adult acute leukemia for which there is currently no curative treatment, and the adult survival rate is only 30%. Highly robust, customizable, stable, and easy to manufacture, this particle delivery system is anticipated to make a major impact on the treatment of adult leukemia."
"Advanced Common Integrative, Intelligent, Customizable and Scalable Automated Logistics Environment (ALE) Framework",N68335-12-C-0021,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,80000.00,Synesis7,220 North Alaska,,Butte,MT,-,No,No,No,Robert Dwyer,VP of Finance,(406) 496-6409,rdwyer@synesis7.com,Allen Ellmaker,CEO/Principal Investigato,(406) 496-6401,akellmaker@synesis7.com,"Our goal through this project is to demonstrate the feasibility and enterprise-wide benefits of Synesis7""s proposed approach for getting to an advanced common integrative, intelligent Automated Logistics Environment (ALE) planning, development, technology, integration, and deployment framework (""ALE Framework"") solution. Establishing technical, operational, cost and commercial feasibility will be dependent on successfully providing an initial proof of concept model focused on Synesis7""s proposed Scalable Collaborative ALE (SCALE)/i3-based ALE Framework with its intelligent integration Manifold/i3 and Orchestrator/i3 technical approach representing the transparent ALE integration and navigation engine (""engine""). This engine is the critical technology enabler of a system of systems services-based enterprise-centric ALE Framework strategy. Key to the intent and success of this engine is our proposed phased research, design/prototyping, development, test and integration of intelligent adaptive-evolutionary genetic agent, distributed neural network, metadata environment, and dynamic algorithm technologies. Holistically, this technology approach in alignment with the other""integrative factors""will evolve into what Synesis7 defines as the genetic code of the ALE Framework Orchestrator integration and navigation engine. Synesis7""s proposed SCALE/3-based ALE Framework technical approach represents an enterprise-wide technology, system/application product, and politically neutral and agnostic solution."
Co-axial Microinjection System for Freezing and Biopsy of Early Embryos,1R43OD012083-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,327350.00,"GENESEARCH, INC.",14666 HORSE CREEK RD,,BOZEMAN,MT,59715-9661,No,No,No,Paul J. Taylor,,406-686-4723,fidoosh@aol.com,Paul J. Taylor,,406-686-4723,fidoosh@aol.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Project, the Dracula Pipette Project, is intended to improve on a device invented by the Project Director (Dr. Paul Taylor) and to find ways to manufacture the device for general use. The device is a co-axial microinjection tool in which the injection pipette is presented from inside the holding pipette. This allows it to suck and hold a portion of the nearside of the surface of an embryo while an injection pipette is passed for injection, aspiration of fluid contents or biopsy of embryonic cells. The Dracula Pipette has been entirely handmade until now, and making it, especially making the delicate glass tips involved, has been too difficult and time-consuming to allow it to be used effectively by other researchers.The real significance of this device is that it allows control and manipulation of embryos at the hatched blastocyst stage of development, after hatching from the zona pellucida and before implantation in the uterus. After hatching, these embryos have noreal structure and cannot be held on one side and penetrated from the opposite side, as is done routinely with embryos still in the zona. The human embryo exists for two to three days as a hatched blastocyst, and there has been no good tool for manipulating it at this most-differentiated stage before implantation. Because it is large and fluid-filled, the human hatched blastocyst is difficult to freeze successfully, and difficult to biopsy. Though the Dracula Pipette will surely be important for use with the hatched blastocysts of other species and on embryos at all stages before implantation, it is the only tool on the horizon for freezing and biopsy of human hatched blastocysts. The Small Business entity involved, GeneSearch, Inc., will supply the currentbest prototype of the device for testing and practical use by a variety of respected embryo researchers in a variety of laboratory settings, working with different kinds of animal models. The consultants will provide information about their experiences with the device and their ideas for improving or changing it for specific purposes. The inventor and the company Design Engineer will work to correct design problems as they are identified and will contract with various micro-technology firms for production of specific improved prototype parts. As these cycles of evaluation and upgrade continue, emphasis will shift to practical manufacture of all parts, so a robust, user- friendly device can be presented to the scientific community. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The improved Dracula Pipette, with disposable plastic tips and micromanipulator control, will be an important addition to the instrumentation in almost all biotech labs dealing with embryos. It will open areas of research in freezing and biopsy of large hatched blastocysts, areas previously ignored because the tool was lacking. Most importantly, it will give human fertility clinicians a way to freeze and biopsy human hatched blastocysts, embryos at the most differentiated stage of development before implantation in the uterus."
50- 100 Watt Wind Energy Harvesting in Light Tactical Applications,W15P7T-11-C-A627,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,729993.00,Pine Ridge Products LLC,1646 E. Highwood Road,,Belt,MT,-,No,No,No,Jennifer Bryce,Principal Investigator,(406) 738-4283,wlbryce@pineridgeproducts.com,Jennifer Bryce,Principal Investigator,(406) 738-4283,wlbryce@pineridgeproducts.com,"Pine Ridge Products, LLC will introduce a tactical wind turbine that is highly efficient, robust, easy to use, maintain and transport. The Army is requesting a renewable energy system to reduce the amount of fuel used for small power loads. A vehicle mounted wind turbine system would improve self sufficiency on site by decreasing the need for fossil fuels. This will increase reliability of communication and intelligence systems. Our turbine is designed with a large rotor and low RPM. This PMG will deliver superior results compared to high speed, high RPM turbines. Our design team has years of experience in small wind turbines and renewable energy power electronics design and manufacturing. In addition to the military application, this turbine would fill a gap in the commercial market for a rugged, reliable, low speed wind turbine for use in telecom power, SCADA, and other remote small power applications"
High Fidelity Down-Conversion Source for Secure Communications using On-Demand Single Photons,NNX11CA54C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,2,599968.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Principal Investigator,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"In this NASA SBIR Phase II effort, AdvR will design and build an efficient, fully integrated, waveguide based, source of spectrally uncorrelated photon pairs that will enable accelerated research and development in the emerging field of quantum information science. The key innovation is the use of sub-micron periodically poled waveguides to produce counter propagating photon pairs using quasi-phase matched downconversion. This novel device will provide a high brightness source of downconversion pairs with enhanced spectral properties, low attenuation, and operation in the visible to the mid-infrared spectral region."
Fiber Coupled Pulse Shaper for Sub-Nanosecond Pulse Lidar,NNX11CA89C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,2,599922.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Principal Investigator,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II effort will develop an all-diode laser and fiber optic based, single frequency, sub-nanosecond pulsed laser source for high resolution lidar applications benefiting SLR, LIST and DESDynI missions. This laser will have a user adjustable pulse width from 2ns to 400ps and will be ideal for seeding high power fiber amplifiers for short pulse, high resolution lidar transmitters. The highest utility of the proposed sub-nanosecond pulsed laser is simultaneously achieving narrow linewidth AND narrow pulse widths that can be set by the user for lidar instruments with<10cm vertical resolution."
Integrated Planar Lightwave Circuits for UV Generation and Phase Modulation,NNX11CB79C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,2,599934.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley McNeil,Principal Investigator,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"The primary goal of this SBIR effort is delivery of a compact, robust, highly efficient, fiber-coupled UV module to provide the required 355nm light for integration into HSRL's UV interferometric-based measurement system. An additional goal of this effort is to prototype a compact, robust, fiber-coupled UV PLC module which produces the required spectrally formatted 355nm light for stabilization of the HSRL's UV interferometric filter, a component required for the accurate measurement of critical aerosol microphysical properties. This approach is enabled by AdvR's patented submount poling technique together with AdvR's integrated Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) technology. The UV PLC concept advances NASA's state-of-the-art lidar systems due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, thus enabling use on small aircraft and future space-based platforms."
"A Waveguide Based, High Power Pockels Cell Modulator for Sub-Nanosecond Pulse Slicing",NNX11CI16P,NASA,NASA,STTR,2011,1,99984.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Justin T. Hawthorne,Principal Investigator,4065220388,hawthorne@advr-inc.com,"The Goal of this STTR is to develop a high speed, high power, waveguide based modulator (phase and amplitude) and investigate its use as a pulse slicer. The key innovation in this effort is the use of potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) waveguides making the high power, polarization based waveguide amplitude modulator possible. Furthermore because it is fabricated in KTP, the waveguide component will withstand high optical power and have a significantly higher rf modulation figure-of-merit (FOM) relative to lithium niobate."
Structured nonlinear optical materials for LIDAR-based remote sensing,NNX11CC59C,NASA,NASA,STTR,2011,2,599988.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,Principal Investigator,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"This NASA Phase II STTR effort will develop domain-engineered magnesium oxide doped lithium niobate (MgO:LN) for LIDAR-based remote sensing and communication applications. Use of bulk and waveguide-based domain engineered MgO:LN will allow the manufacture of highly efficient and compact, wavelength conversion modules for second-harmonic generation (SHG), sum-frequency generation (SFG), and parametric down conversion (PDC). In addition, these devices can be configured for broadband and high-gain optical parametric amplification (OPA) in the near-IR spectral region providing a path to the development of compact, single wavelength, spectroscopically useful laser sources as well as programmable optical comb (multi-wavelength) sources."
"Fast, Low Loss, Electro-Optic Switch for Quantum Information Processing",NNX11CE02P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99922.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Principal Investigator,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"Single photon sources and detectors hold the key to achieving success in several quantum communication and computation applications. Many of these goals can be achieved with the realization of low-loss high-speed switching for single photons. AdvR proposes a unique implementation of an electro-optic (EO) deflector with ideal properties for single photon switching. The device operates on the principle of electro-optically controlled prisms engineered into a ferroelectric substrate, and is designed to have very low loss (less than 0.1%), fast switching speed (sub-nanosecond), good isolation (┬?50dB crosstalk), and operation from the ultraviolet to the mid-infrared. AdvR has previously built and tested fiber-coupled EO switches and the demonstrated performance shows exciting potential for use in photonics-based approaches to quantum information science. This Phase I SBIR will investigate the use of the EO deflector technology for single photon switching and evaluate the feasibility of using engineered electro-optic deflectors to provide low-loss, high-speed switching for quantum information processing."
"Robust, Low Loss Approach for Fiber to Waveguide Coupling",NNX11CE71P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99934.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley McNeil,Principal Investigator,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"This NASA Phase I SBIR effort proposes to establish the feasibility of significantly improving coupling at fiber to waveguide interfaces for the manufacture of low loss fiber coupled components being developed for several NASA lidar based initiatives, including LaRC's HSRL program. Efficient and robust coupling of single mode fibers to optical waveguides is essential to the performance and manufacturability of a variety of low loss, fiber coupled non-linear optical components such as amplitude modulators, wavelength converters and integrated waveguide-based photonic devices. The goal of the Phase II effort will be the delivery of HSRL-specific waveguide components to LaRC that incorporate the improvements developed in the SBIR effort. Once optimized, the proposed approach will allow for a robust, low loss method for fiber to waveguide coupling that will be well-suited for air-borne and space based applications, thus advancing NASA's requirement for state-of-the-art lidar technology with emphasis on compactness, efficiency, and performance."
Periodically Poled Materials for UV Generation,W911NF-11-C-0028,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2011,2,749917.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,(406) 522-0388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Senior Laser Physicist,(406) 522-0388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"Army quantum information researchers have an immediate need for improved stable, narrowband violet and UV laser sources with 10100 mW output and 10 MHz10 GHz tuning. These sources are required for numerous ion and atom qubits functions including photoionization, Doppler cooling, state initialization, and detection. The cost and complexity of currently available UV lasers hampers current efforts and impedes scale-up to systems with more qubits. Simple, compact, fiber-output sources based on single-pass nonlinear frequency conversion in periodically poled materials will reduce the time and money spent on lasers and create a path toward more sophisticated ion traps requiring larger numbers of UV sources. Periodically poled materials currently being developed offer a clear path to fulfill this goal through up-conversion of commercially available IR lasers. Under the proposed Phase II effort, AdvR will develop efficient single-pass periodically-poled up-converters in bulk and waveguide devices based on newly available crystal substrates with improved properties for UV generation."
"High Speed, Watt Class Multi-access Modulators for Airborne and Spaceborne Communications",FA9453-11-M-0107,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,99948.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,(406) 522-0388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Todd Hawthorne,Researcher,(406) 522-0388,hawthorne@advr-inc.com,"ABSTRACT: In order to achieve high data transmission rates (>40Gbps), it is necessary to use external modulators as direct diode modulation can be limited by chirping, parasitics or microwave effects. Traditional amplitude modulation is done with Mach Zehnder Interferometers or directional couplers. Unfortunately, this technology is not multi-access compatible without the introduction of multiplexing elements which add Size, Weight and Power consumption (SWaP) to the aircraft budget. An alternative approach is a serially transmitted, parallel encoding system based on an innovative multi-element modulator. In this Air Force Phase I effort, the feasibility of fabricating Watt class multi-access compatible waveguide modulators will be established. The proposed device will withstand high optical power and have a significantly higher rf modulation figure-of-merit than conventional waveguide based modulators. This parallel optical transmitter module suitable for satellite communications directly meets the needs of Air Force programs as called for in AF103-096 TITLE: High-Efficiency Optical Transmitter Module. BENEFIT: A broad range of communication applications will be affected by the availability of higher speed, higher power modulators. Applications include land-based as well as airborne and spaceborne use. Initially, the proposed modulator will address the DoD""s need for laser communications with lower terminal size, weight, and power. Next, free space communications will benefit directly as the near IR wavelengths most beneficial for earth based free space communications can be utilized at relatively high powers, not currently available with lithium niobate modulators. Further, the high figure of merit, simplicity of design, and high power handling will offer improvements for communications across a broader wavelength range than currently offered by lithium niobate modulators"
Dropsonde System for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles,NNX11CA14C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,2,599573.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4064069354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4064069354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"A small, modular dropsonde launcher is being developed for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Some critical measurement needs can only be satisfied by in-situ measurements. Key examples of such measurements include detailed atmospheric profiles, point meteorological conditions on the surface, and in-situ measurements for calibration and validation of remote sensing systems.Phase I work saw the design and fabrication of a new type of dropsonde with a novel form factor and the associated launcher. The system was installed in a representative UAV nose. System components were successfully tested.Phase II will involve finalizing the launcher and dropsonde designs, developing the associated control and data handling system, building and testing the integrated system, and finally conducting test flights on a UAV.The ultimate result of the project will be a dropsonde system that can be fitted to many NASA UAVs, including small UAVs, and enable them to gather in-situ atmospheric profiles and surface measurements using dropsondes.The Phase II entry TRL is 5; the expected exit TRL is 8."
Cloud Liquid Water Content Sensor for Radiosondes,NNX11CD74P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99950.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Icing is one of the most significant hazards to aircraft. There is still much research to be completed with regard to developing remote-sensing technologies for accurately identifying where icing conditions exist in clouds. There is a need to provide in-situ measurements of cloud liquid water content to validate the remote measurements.Anasphere, Inc. proposes to develop a modernized version of the classic vibrating wire cloud liquid water content sensor. This modernized version will apply updated technology to the measurement, and more importantly will add a droplet sizing capability that the original versions of these sensors lacked. It will be designed to be compatible with a wide variety of radiosondes.Phase I will see the development and laboratory testing of the improved probe, its incorporation into a droplet sizing system, and finally actual test flights into clouds. Phase II work will involve developing more precise calibration methods, improving manufacturability, and extensive test flights."
Advanced Tethersonde for High-Speed Flux Measurements,NNX11CE87P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99962.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Flux measurements of trace gases and other quantities, such as latent heat, are of great importance in scientific field research. One typical flux measurement setup involves placing measurement equipment (sonic anemometers and associated sensors or samplers) on rigid towers (rigidity being required to provide a stable platform for the sonic anemometers). These towers are relatively immobile, and cannot be readily moved nor installed in remote locations. This prevents fluxes or vertical profiles of trace species from being measured in many remote areas.Anasphere will develop a tethersonde system which will allow flux measurements to be made using tethered blimps or kites. The tethersonde modules will incorporate a three-dimensional sonic anemometer plus motion-correction sensors so that the motion of the tether and module may be removed from the wind measured by the sonic anemometer. The result will be a highly mobile flux tower.In Phase I, a proof-of-concept tethersonde module will be built and tested which incorporates a three-dimensional sonic anemometer and motion-correction sensors. It will be tested in flight. Phase II work will see the refinement of the modules and sensor algorithms, as well as extensive field tests."
The GlideSonde: A Lifting Body Guided Dropsonde,NNX11CF10P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99905.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Dropsondes are one of the primary in-situ measurement tools available to research aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Unlike sensors mounted on aircraft, dropsondes allow a vertical profile of the atmosphere to be taken below the aircraft. A guided dropsonde which could glide away from the launch aircraft will allow profiles to be taken away from the aircraft flight path, and would offer aircraft the ability to deploy dropsondes into dangerous environments, such as thunderstorms and volcanic plumes, where few aircraft are able to safely venture.Anasphere, Inc., in cooperation with Vanilla Aircraft, Inc., proposes to develop a guided dropsonde to meet this need. This dropsonde will be designed as a lifting body. It will build upon an existing miniature dropsonde developed by Anasphere, have essentially no moving parts, retain the ability to return wind profiles along with accurate meteorological data, and have sufficient speed to penetrate moderate headwinds.Phase I work will include designing and prototyping the aerodynamic form, integrating essential guidance electronics, and conducting extensive glide tests. Phase II work will include the integration of complete sensor, guidance, and communications payloads, refinement of the aerodynamic form, and extensive live flight tests from high altitude."
SBIR Phase II: Fast and Accurate Laser Distance Metrology,1058583,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2011,2,499996.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Randy R. Reibel,PhD,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy R. Reibel,,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will enhance and optimize the Precision Distance Measurement system developed during the Phase I effort. The technology is based on innovative ultra-precise control of frequency-swept lasers to determine absolute object distances and thicknesses. The system is capable of distance and thickness measurements with<10-nanometer precisions,>1 kHz update rates, volume measurement coverage of 1 m3 (<10-micron precision), and measurement ranges>>1 meter. This combination of features is needed for industrial metrology, target identification, and precision surveying applications. During the Phase II effort, a prototype system will be constructed and used to perform targeted experiments based on identified OEM customer needs and industry technology gaps. The prototype will include Doppler compensation, a software interface, and will be fully configured and tested for both in-house and on-site testing. The prototype will then be used to perform critical in-house and on-site demonstrations driven by OEM customer needs, which include spatial multiplexing and galvo steering for rendering rapid 3D images, precise measurement of large-angle and diffusely scattering surfaces for precise measurement of aspheric lenses, oddly shaped objects, and rough surfaces, and precise measurement of meter-level displacements for CMM and gauge block calibration. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project will initially be to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and production throughput. The measurement system uniquely combines extremely high precision (<10 nm) with the ability to measure over extremely large ranges (>>1 m). Due to this combination of performance and flexibility, coupled with demonstrated high update rates, the technology will enable increased production throughput in the manufacturing process and enable rapid absolute positioning and scanning measurements. The system will therefore enable considerable growth in an industry driven by advanced and more accurate inspection. The project will also lead to important societal benefits. For example, the technology holds promise for penetration into severely degraded visual environments caused by blowing sand and dust as well as into smoke or fog. It is anticipated that a variety of military and civilian applications would benefit from this capability including navigation, fire safety, and inspection systems. The benefits include saved lives and reduced property damage and more efficient search and rescue in burning buildings. Moreover, the system provides unique scientific opportunities such as enabling advanced space-based measurements by formation flying sparse apertures for the exploration of extra-solar planets and for atmospheric turbulence mitigation and high resolution imaging of the earth from space."
Multi-Point Trilateration: A New Approach for Distributed Metrology,NNX11CF41P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,100000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Randy R. Reibel,Cheif Operations Officer,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy R. Reibel,Principal Investigator,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"For NASA missions requiring active control of segmented mirrors, optical trusses and booms, coherent, laser-based approaches such as CW laser interferometers have been preferred because they can provide very high resolution relative position measurements. Other approaches, such as multi-color interferometers can provide absolute range measurements. However, neither technique can measure multiple retroreflectors with a single optical transceiver. This has led to complex distributed metrology systems, which are limited in usefulness. Bridger Photonics Inc. proposes to investigate a novel distributed metrology approach that is uniquely enabled by its SLM-Series of actively stabilized swept laser sources. The technique, termed multi-point trilateration, uses a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) chirped laser radar to determine the range to multiple reflectors that are illuminated simultaneously by three or more large field-of-view transceivers. Because Bridger's laser radar system can unambiguously determine the range to multiple targets within the field-of-view with high accuracy, trilateration can be utilized to estimate the three-dimensional (3D) coordinates for all of the retroreflective targets within the field-of-view. Bridger provides two critical advantages for the development of this distributed metrology system: 1) The world's highest resolution laser radar system, which is crucial for determining the range to the multiple retroreflectors, and 2) Proprietary processing techniques that enable Cramer-Rao lower bound limited range estimation. Under the proposed work plan, Bridger will provide an optimal design for Transceiver/Retroreflector geometries and model the expected performance, conduct demonstrations validating the system performance and provide a space-qualifiable, compact system design that can be built and delivered to NASA during a Phase II effort should the approach be feasible."
DYNAMICALLY PROGRAMMABLE AND ADAPTIVE MULTI-BAND COMPRESSIVE IMAGING SYSTEM,W911NF-11-C-0242,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2011,1,100000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter Roos,Chief Executive Officer,(406) 585-2774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Chief Operations Officer,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics and the University of Arizona will develop a passive multi-band compressive sensor for imaging and object recognition applications. The Army has identified a need for multi-band imagery for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions among others. Multi-band systems offer enhanced discrimination capability and the ability to perform in adverse conditions (at night, smoke, fog, etc.). Compressive sensing is ideally suited to multi-band imaging systems as it offers improved performance while reducing size, weight and power, as well as hardware and data bandwidth requirements. Compressive sensing is particularly beneficial when some of the desired spectral bands lie outside of the visible spectrum as focal plane arrays, especially in the mid-wave and long-wave IR bands, have poor performance and high costs. Furthermore, the on-going need for improved performance and increased functionality within shrinking form factors renders compressive sensing a logical choice for future systems. Under this effort, the team will examine advanced algorithms and architectures for compressive sensing, provide proof-of-concept adaptive and programmable multi-band hardware demonstrations, and design a portable and adaptive multi-band compressive imaging system and determine its feasibility for implementation during a Phase II effort."
Fast and Accurate Tools for Measuring Fluorescence in Living Cells,1R43MH096670-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2011,1,348182.00,Montana Molecular LLC,619 N. Church Ave,Unit 4,Bozeman,MT,59715-3087,Yes,No,Yes,Anne M. Quinn,,406-539-7399,amq@montanamolecular.com,Anne M. Quinn,,406-539-7399,amq@montanamolecular.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Project Summary/Abstract Drug discovery depends crucially upon reliable assays for biological activity. Live cell assays provide a rich environment for measuring biological activity. Coupled with genetically encodedfluorescent biosensors, live cell assays have the potential to provide read-outs with unprecedented specificity for particular signaling pathways. Although widely used for basic research applications in living cells, genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors have had little impact on drug discovery because of difficulties in measuring and interpreting fluorescence intensity read-outs, including poor signal to noise ratios, variability in cell expression, and interference from fluorescence emitted by compounds. This Phase 1 project will demonstrate the feasibility of a new strategy that combines highly specific biosensors with extremely fast fluorescence lifetime measurements to produce the speed, sensitivity and specificity needed for high throughput screening applications. This approach employs an alternative fluorescence measurement based on fluorescence lifetime that is much faster than time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC), yet also more precise. It operates in non-imaging mode which makes forsimple data interpretation and minimizes background fluorescence. It goes far beyond the expected incremental improvements to image-based technologies. Our preliminary data demonstrates the tremendous potential for robust live cell assays when lifetime methodology is applied to measuring genetically encoded fluorescent sensors. Our specific aims will accomplish the vital proof of principle steps and set the direction for our long term objectives of producing a robust live cell drug discovery platform within5 years. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: New assays for biological activity are urgently needed to develop safe and effective drugs that provide better treatment outcomes and improved human health. This proposal addresses the technical challenges associated with using fluorescent live-cell assays and has strong potential to reduce the cost and improve the reliability of drug discovery processes."
Low-Cost Integrated Valve/Injectors for Bipropellant Thrusters,HQ0147-11-C-7686,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,498855.00,MONTCORP.,1445 Lakeview Lane,,Whitefish,MT,-,No,No,No,Blaine Wright,Mechanical Engineer/Owner,(406) 862-9777,bwright@montcorp.com,Blaine Wright,Mechanical Engineer/Owner,(406) 862-9777,bwright@montcorp.com,"The most significant hardware costs on a missile interceptor propulsion system are associated with the thrusters, for which there are typically four divert thrusters and four, six, or eight attitude control thrusters per interceptor. The largest contributor to the thruster cost is the integrated valve/injector. Integration of the valve and injector into a single body provides the benefits of low dribble volume, low weight, and fast response. However, the current designs are subject to serial manufacturing steps, adding to the component""s cost and scchedule. A novel concept for the fabricating the injector was proposed by Montcorp for its Phase I program. A full-scale design was demonstrated in the Phase I effort, which represents the first integrated valve/injector concept that allows complete fabrication of the injector faceplate (including orifices and acoustic cavities) before integration with the valve body. This design provides significant cost and schedule savings in the fabrication of the valve/injector. The Phase II program will accomplish continued design, development, and hot-fire testing of multiple integrated valve/injectors using the injector faceplate concept developed in Phase I. Duty cycles from the qualification of a characteristic production thruster will be used."
The Effector Trap: A New Tool for Virulence Factor Discovery,W31P4Q-11-C-0220,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,99945.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Claire Checroun,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5245,Claire.Checroun@Resodyn.com,"The accelerating prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains is an increasing public health problem. While the emergence of resistant strains is unavoidable, it is exacerbated by the widespread use, inappropriate prescription and misuse of antibiotics. Development of new antibiotics is slow and costly. One alternative to antibiotics is the development of antimicrobials that target the bacteria virulence factors. Such drugs will exert a milder selection pressure and should reduce the likelihood of development of resistant sub-populations. Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop an""Effector Trap"": a new platform and a packaging that will allow a rapid and efficient isolation of virulence factors from multiple bacteria by exposing them artificially to the cues they normally encounter in vivo. The platform setup will allow for direct recovery of concentrated solutions containing the virulence factors, providing targets for the development of virulence factor-based antimicrobial compounds.x"
Repair and Restore Polymer Thermal Spray Coating and Application System,N00167-11-P-0019,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,150000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President&CEO,(406) 497-5252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5229,SCoguill@resodyn.com,"The Navy seeks an in-situ powder coating material and application method for spot repair. Resodyn Corporation proposes a unique restoration and repair polymer thermal spray coating (R & RPTS) system that provides the ease of repair, safety in handling, and effective coating protection to fulfill the Navy needs. The proposed system will be a zero VOC, non-toxic, non-chromated material with the potential for substantially lower zinc loading then is required by conventional anti-corrosion coatings. The coating and application system are not limited by repair area size or thickness of desired coating. The proposed material has an indefinite storage and working pot life with no cure time and temperature restrictions. The R & RPTS approach is not limited by arcing to a grounded substrate or Faraday cage effects, nor is there any coating degradation due to flame."
Non-Contact Sensor Technology to Locate Electromagnetic Grids in Ceramics,W31P4Q-11-C-0193,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,69958.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@resodyn.com,Stephen Galbraith,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5223,sgalbraith@resodyn.com,"Electromagnetic structures buried in optical ceramic domes may be accurately located using an electromagnetic sensor and detection technology. A preliminary experiment demonstrated this claim but an investigation into electromagnetic properties that can vary as a result of manufacturing tolerance is required. Similar off-the-shelf technologies will be prone to error caused by these property variations. Competing technologies such as capacitive, optical, or sonic lack a key advantage the electromagnetic approach offers - optical ceramic, cutting fluids, dust, and surface conditions are electromagnetically transparent. This makes it possible to develop a small, light weight sensor that can integrate to a standard coordinate measuring machine or directly to a ceramic grinding and polishing machine. In a manufacturing environment, the sensing technology could be used to tell the grinding and polishing machine, real-time, where to locate dome surfaces. Resodyn Corporation proposes a Phase I study to quantify electromagnetic property variations on test specimens manufactured to tolerance limits. Using existing Resodyn Corporation technology and know-how a custom sensor will be fabricated for the study and compensation methods will be formulated."
Resonant Acoustic Mixing of Solid Rocket Motor Propellant to Minimize Property Variations,FA9300-11-C-3011,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,722411.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,(406) 497-5252,LCFarrar@Resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,(406) 497-5229,SCoguill@Resodyn.com,"ABSTRACT: Current mixing and casting procedures result in unwanted gradients in solid rocket motor (SRM) material properties with subsequent ballistic property variations. Resodyn Corporations ResonantAcoustic mixing (RAM) technology is poised to revolutionize the design, development and production of SRMs. RAM technology has the unique capability of rapidly mixing high solids propellant without using the high levels of shear that contribute to non-uniform material properties of the SRMs that are currently produced. Additionally RAM enables a method to reduces the number steps needed to fabricate an SRM. Uniform mixing of an inert propellant was successfully demonstrated in Phase I resulting in tensile modulus variations in the propellant less than, or equal to, 5%. The mix-in-case concept was demonstrated for both an end-burner and a center perforation grain configuration. A first principles model was introduced and its applicability was demonstrated. This Phase II proposal extends the Phase I effort with more detailed evaluations of propellant formulation and grain configuration relative to ResonantAcousticÁMixing focusing upon scaling up the process and mixing in case. Safety concerns and facility requirements are also addressed. A method for dissemination and exchange of RAM best practices throughout the energetics community is also proposed. BENEFIT: RAM technologies will have significant impact at all levels of the SRM industry from laboratory development work, to engineering prototype motors, and into qualified production programs. This technology dramatically reduces production cycle times and reduces the significance of the uncured propellant viscosity, which is currently a limiting factor that dominates current mixing procedures. When the RAM technology is integrated into all levels of the SRM industry, the inherent benefits of using RAM technology will allow for improvements in mix quality, safety, production time and quality."
Enhanced Dynamic Range Proteomic Analysis: Phase II,2R42RR025311-03,HHS,HHS,STTR,2011,2,1193746.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,,406-586-3356,kehoe@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,,406-586-3356,swanson@resonon.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The long-term goal of this effort is to develop an optical module that will reduce stray light within imaging systems, thereby providing more accurate measurements from digital images and increased dynamic range of detection to enable analysis of objects not currently measurable. The present Phase II proposal is aimed at greatly enhancing the analysis of multicolor spectral imaging of fluorescent dyes in proteomics to detect changes in protein levels and protein posttranslational modifications in gel electrophoresis. Potential future applications of the optical module will improve multicolor fluorescence detection in immunohistochemistry and analysis of fluorescent proteins in cells and tissues, microplate reading and microfluidic analysis for new methods of multiplex diagnostics. The system to be developed will be usable on nearly all optical imaging systems so as to broaden the scope of applications and ultimately reduce the cost. The specific aims are to: (1) Develop and characterize a Noise Reduction Module (NoRM). This system will record an initial image, then utilize a feedback loop to turn off the bright pixels and associated stray-light to more accurately measure regions within an image; (2) Demonstrate the NoRM in proteomics applications, which will validate the technology, and enable detection of proteins and patterns of proteins in 2-D gels that are currently too weak to observe (the enhanced protein patterns are expected to have diagnostic value), and guide enhanced electroelution/microfluidic digestion/integrated mass spectral analysis ; and (3) Prepare a production prototype NoRM for a limited scale release by the end of the Phase II effort. This Phase II effort builds on a successful Phase I effort that demonstrated greater than factor of 10 improvement in dynamic range as compared to currently used image bracketing technology. The proposed effort is cross-disciplinary, with expertise required in optical and mechanical design, software development, productionengineering, biochemistry, proteomics, and systems biology. The resulting technology will be useful for proteomics, microscopy, and many other technologies that utilize digital cameras. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The proposed technology will reduce the stray light noise for digital imaging systems, thereby expanding capabilities for proteomics, glycomics, cell biology, diagnostics and any biomedical application that utilizes digital cameras. During this effort, patterns of weakly-expressed proteins andchanges in these proteins, whose signals are currently too weak to be identified in electrophoresis gels will be measured and identified to better understand biological mechanisms, improve development of more specific drugs, and enhance regenerative and preventative medicine."
Predictive Situational Awareness Tool,NNX11CD49P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,95297.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur Molin,Business Official,2816365592,amolin@ska-llc.com,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,2816365592,amolin@ska-llc.com,"Situational Awareness is the key element of performing safe and effective operations, and the space vehicle operations carried out by NASA is by no means an exception to the rule. Astronauts and flight controllers need to maintain awareness of the situation in the space vehicles, robots, habitats, Mission Control Center, and other systems. NASA has devoted and continues to devote a significant amount of resources to software for displaying the current situation in order to maintain this awareness. However, astronauts and flight controllers need to predict the future state of the systems for themselves. What will happen next?Resources have now advanced to the point where it is possible to inform the astronauts and flight controllers of the expected situation in the near future, and also to warn them if the current situation does not match the expectations of the recent past┬?this will indicate a developing issue that requires attention. All of this will aid in reducing the cognitive load on the astronauts and flight controllers, and help them perform their work safely and effectively.
S & K Aerospace, LLC (SKA) proposes to research and develop a system that will provide predictive situational awareness to flight controllers and astronauts, by bringing together information about the current state of the vehicles and other systems, the activities planned in the near future, and the expected state of the system in the future, as well as an indication if the current state of the system matches planned state. This system will be called the Predictive System Awareness Tool, or PSAT."
MenuChoice:Nutrition Program for Community-based Group Homes for Persons with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities,H133S110006,ED,ED,SBIR,2011,1,74925.00,"Good Nutrition Ideas, LLC",814 Poplar Street,,Missoula,MT,59802,Yes,No,No,,,,,Kathleen Humphries,,(406) 396-1033,khumphries@goodnutritionideas.com,"This project develops a nutrition program, MenuChoiceę, for community-based group homes for persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Adults with IDD experience poorer nutritional health and more nutrition-related secondary conditions than adults without disabilities. These conditions are preventable and modifiable through a safe, healthful diet, but multiple challenges preclude this much needed improvement from occurring, especially in semi-dependent populations. MenuChoiceę is a nutritional health promotion system consisting of written support resources together with an online program of training. It structures the food systems of group homes, manages the dietary intake of adults with IDD, and fits seamlessly into the operations of the group home. During Phase I, a comprehensive educational schematic for online training, with all learning elements tested for feasibility and learner appropriateness and the system requirements for the information technology necessary for online implementation of the training are developed. Project results are expected to be commercially viable, empirically validated providing a unique, practical, and affordable solution to the problem of poor nutrition and nutrition-related secondary conditions in adults with IDD who live in community-based group homes."
50- 100 Watt Wind Energy Harvesting in Light Tactical Applications,W15P7T-10-C-B604,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2010,1,69053.00,Pine Ridge Products LLC,1646 E. Highwood Road,,Belt,MT,-,No,No,No,Jennifer Bryce,Owner,4067384283,green@psicorp.com,Jennifer Bryce,Principal Investigator,4067384283,wlbryce@pineridgeproducts.com,"Pine Ridge Products LLC will introduce a tactical micro wind turbine that is highly efficient, robust, easy to use, maintain and transport. The Army is requesting a renewable energy system to reduce the amount of fuel used for small power loads. A vehicle mounted, efficient wind turbine system would improve self sufficiency on site by decreasing the need for fossil fuels. This will increase reliability of communication and intelligence systems. Unlike other micro turbines, currently on the market, our solution is to design a micro wind turbine with a large rotor and low RPM. This highly efficient PMG will deliver superior results compared to high speed, high RPM micro turbines. Our design team has years of experience in small wind turbines and renewable energy power electronics design and manufacturing. In addition to the military application, this turbine would fill a gap in the commercial market for a rugged, reliable, low speed micro turbine for use in telecom power, SCADA, and other remote small power applications."
Economic Capture of CO2 with Amines and Ionic Liquids Tethered in the Gas Phase,EPD10031,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2010,1,69479.00,"IntelliMet, LLC",4200 Fox Farm Rd.,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,Richard F. Hammen,,5105072334,,Richard F. Hammen,,5105072334,,"The objective of this project is to develop CO2 absorption columns with rates of production that will enable CO2 capture for less than $20 per ton of CO2. The research will make use of a nano-composite sorbent material called interstitial ôSpiderwebsöTM. The Spiderweb material was conceived to overcome a fundamental kinetic limitation of conventional solid sorbents for molecular and ionic separations in aqueous solutions. The Spiderweb sorbents are thinly cross-linked networks of polymers covalently tethered in the interstitial volumes between hollow glass microspheres. CO2 selective ligands are tethered onto the Spiderweb so that they are placed in the middle of the gas phase between the microspheres and away from the stagnant surface. This enables the CO2 binding groups to rapidly capture the gas. The CO2 is captured with residence times of seconds. Temperature swing elution also occurs in seconds. This Phase I research will fabricate and characterize a library of composite CO2 capture columns with varying CO2-binding reagents such as tethered amines and ionic liquid components. The specific objectives are to:
Prepare composite sorbent columns with CO2-binding amines tethered in the gas phase of the composite matrix.
Prepare composite sorbent columns with CO2-binding imidazolium slats tethered in the phase of the composite matrix.
Measure performance of the sorbent columns with respect to:
Capacity of the columns measured as kg CO2 per cubic meter of sorbent.
Kinetics of adsorption of CO2 measured as kg CO2/cubic meter per second, while achieving 90 percent CO2 recovery from a 12 percent CO2/N2 gas mixture.
Kinetics of desorption of CO2 from the columns as kg CO2 liberated per second.
Provide preliminary engineering analysis of the unit process costs of the CO2 capture columns.
The expected results are to:á synthesize carbon capture columns with very high capacities of moles carbon dioxide per kg of sorbent; demonstrate kinetics characteristics that will enable the sorbent beds to capture greater than 90 percent of CO2 with a flow rate of more than 10 bed volumes per minute; and to show desorption of the CO2 to occur in a few seconds. The potential commercial application will be to provide carbon capture units that will enable the economically feasible reduction of greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide."
TARGETED TWO-PHOTON PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY TRIADS,N43CO201000102,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2010,1,199386.00,"SENSOPATH TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",920 Technology Blvd,STE B,BOZEMAN,MT,59718-4001,Yes,No,No,,,(406) 587-6338,brenda.spangler@sensopath.com,Charles Spangler,,,,"The objectives are to further the pre-clinical development of unique two-photon activated Photodynamic Therapy (PTD) triads that incorporate a photosensitizer, a tumor receptor targeting group, and an imaging functionality, providing a noninvasive treatment of recurrent and refractory Head and Neck (HandN) tumors deep below the skin surface, in an outpatient setting."
New Controlled Release Fertilizer Systems Derived from Biomass,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2010,1,90000.00,"RIVERTOP RENEWABLES, INC.",1121 E BROADWAY STE 135,,Missoula,MT,59802-4907,No,No,No,Tyler N. Smith,Director of Research and Development,4065323279,tyler@rivertop.com,Donald E. Kiely,Chief Technical Officer,4065496126,don@rivertop.com,"Studies have shown that up to 70 percent of conventionally applied fertilizer goes unutilized by plants and becomes a contaminant of surface and ground (drinking) water. Fertilizer run-off in surface water leads to oxygen depletion of streams, lakes, and other bodies of water. Without oxygen, the water becomes uninhabitable for fish and other aquatic organisms. In addition to the negative environmental impacts, fertilizer waste through leaching increases farm expenditures for fertilizer materials, labor, and fuel due to the need for multiple applications of fertilizer. As the costs of traditional fertilizers continue to rise and environmental regulations become more stringent, more attention will be directed toward developing efficient fertilizer technology. Cost competitive fertilizer materials with greater efficiency in nutrient delivery would be environmentally and economically advantageous, providing significant savings to American farmers. Controlled-release fertilizers, capable of delivering plant nutrients in a controlled manner over time, are the most promising fertilizer technology. However, controlled-release fertilizers currently command a 3x to 10x premium over traditional fertilizers, making them too expensive for most crop applications. Therefore, new technology is needed to make controlled-release fertilizers cost competitive with conventional fertilization strategies. This Phase I project outlines new controlled-release fertilizer systems which utilize a biodegradable polymer matrix made from renewable resources. The polymers targeted in this project will be derived from xylaric acid which is produced in one chemical oxidation step from xylose (wood sugar), a carbohydrate component of biomass. To demonstrate the feasibility of using xylaric acid-based polyamides as the basis for controlled-release fertilizer systems, this project sets the following objectives a) to optimize a new, low-cost polymerization method for condensing xylaric acid with select commercially-available diamines, b) to develop a protocol for encapsulating conventional fertilizer materials within the xylaric acid-based polyamides, and c) to measure the nutrient release from the polymer encapsulated fertilizers. We expect the results from this project to help bridge the economic gap between conventional and controlled-release fertilizers, making the latter more affordable through the use of a superior polymeric material for encapsulating fertilizer components. At the conclusion of this project we expect to have platform technology for preparing a number of polymer encapsulated fertilizer materials derived from xylaric acid, select diamines, and conventional fertilizers. This will mitigate large expenditures in the fertilization process and curtail environmental impacts associated with conventional fertilizing procedures."
The Use of Ion-Accumulating Halophytes for the Phytoremediation of Saline and Selenium Impacted Soil and Water in Cold-Arid Climates,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2010,2,391369.00,BLUE MOON BULBS LLP,110 PROGRESSIVE DR,,Belgrade,MT,59714-9141,Yes,No,No,Laura Y. Smith,President,4063881116,westscapenursery@yahoo.com,Laura Y. Smith,President,4063881116,westscapenursery@yahoo.com,"The Bureau of Land Management and other agencies have called the rapid expansion of energy exploration on the Rocky Mountain Front, the single largest environmental challenge facing the western U.S. The Powder River Basin (PRB) of Wyoming and Montana is an area of major development for coal bed methane gas (CBM) exploration. CBM resides in underground coal seams, trapped by large aquifers of water which contain elevated levels of salts and sodium ions. In order to harness CBM, these saline-sodic ""discharge"" waters must be pumped to the surface. Discharge waters are already causing degradation of soil, water, and air quality, loss of drinking water reserves, increased soil erosion, reduction in land values and agricultural productivity, degradation of wetlands, native range habitat and dependent species, risks to human and animal health, as well as impacting rural community life. In 2008, more than 900 million barrels of discharge were pumped to the surface in the PRB with 120,000 new wells expected to come on line in the next 20 years. Each well can produce as much as 20 tons of salt being applied to the surface, impacting thousands of acres of land. The EPA has called for the development of phytoremediation (plant-based) strategies to counteract and ameliorate the negative effects of discharge water on soil and water resulting from CBM exploration in cold-arid environments. No such efforts have currently been developed. In Phase I research, Westscape Nursery demonstrated that their selected, adapted halophytes (highly salt-tolerant plants) have the ability to remove sodium and other toxic elements (including selenium) from impacted soil and water, as well as evaporate (via transpiration) large volumes of salinated water. In Phase II, Westscape will further develop advanced breeding lines and clonal material with enhanced abilities for these traits. These plants will be integrated as part of a pre-vegetated mat system which can be readily deployed for in situ soil and water remediation on CBM and other similarly impacted sites. The (erosion control-like) mats will also contain proprietary formulations of fertilizer, growth, and other biotic factors for enhanced establishment and performance of the mats. Westscape anticipates that at the end of Phase II, it will have an innovative, market-ready, phytoremedial technology that is environmentally friendly, easy to use, and far less expensive to implement than current mechanical solutions currently being employed. The proposed technology is widely applicable across the region. Exploration companies are being strongly encouraged to take more pro-active measures at reducing the deleterious effects of CBM development; the BLM and other agencies manage expansive tracts of impacted lands in the West; private land owners and agricultural operations could also benefit from this technology. In 2010, Westscape will implement a field-scale demonstration of this technology in a contract with the US Fish & Wildlife Service for reclamation of saline and selenium impacted land at the Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge in central Montana."
"Highly efficient, compact, picosecond green laser for time resolved fluorescence",1R43RR028201-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2010,1,57294.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,,,,Christopher M. Kaleva,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The primary goal of the Phase I effort is to establish the feasibility of fabricating waveguides to realize a significant, (10 fold), increase in performance in the output power of a picosecond pulsed green laser withou
t increasing the peak pump power. The ultimate goal is to develop a fiber pigtailed, compact, cost-effective 530 nm picosecond laser producing 10 mW average power at 80 MHz. In addition to achieving a more flexible laser source through higher output powers
and higher pulse repetition frequencies, the higher efficiency enables the manufacture of lower cost 1 mW average power lasers by using lower power, lower cost pumps. Improving the overall performance (increased power, pulse repetition frequency and lifet
ime with reduced size and cost) will significantly increase the incorporation of this technology into a broad range of time-resolved bioscience applications and thus helping to accelerate new bioscience breakthroughs. In the Phase I effort, AdvR will utili
ze its experience with nonlinear optical frequency converters to fabricate improved frequency doubling waveguides resulting in a significant increase in pulsed output power from the current 1 mW average power at 40 MHz when using a PicoQuant MOFA 1064 puls
ed laser. The key innovation in this effort is to combine three high payoff manufacturing approaches to increasing the second harmonic generation module's efficiency. They are: 1) using tapered, buried waveguide structures to significantly decrease input a
nd output coupling losses (from 50% to 20%), 2) increasing internal waveguide conversion efficiency from 100%/W/cm2 to 300%/W/cm2 by optimizing the waveguide geometry (width and depth), and 3) increasing the overall length of the waveguide (from 1.5cm to 3
cm). PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The biosciences require the development of time-resolved techniques to investigate cellular functions at the molecular level. The ultimate goal of this SBIR effort is to develop a fiber pigtailed, compact, cost-effectiv
e 530 nm picosecond laser producing 10 mW average power at 80 MHz. The higher average power will provide a more flexible laser source, enabling higher pulse repetition frequencies and measurement speed for a variety of bioscience applications. In addition,
more efficient waveguide doublers will require less pump power to meet the current 1 mW average power output specification, which will dramatically increase the lifetime of the overall laser system and decrease the pump laser requirements and cost, allowi
ng more researchers to afford the equipment to carry out time-resolved fluorescence research, accelerating bioscience breakthroughs."
"A Compact, Waveguide Based Programmable Optical Comb Generator",NNX10CF63P,NASA,NASA,STTR,2010,1,99975.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,,Philip Battle,Principal Investigator,,battle@advr-inc.com,"This NASA Phase I STTR effort will establish the feasibility of developing a compact broadband near to mid-IR programmable optical comb for use in laser based remote sensing and communications. The comb generator will use a waveguide-based optical parametric gain block technology that can have ultra wideband (>250nm) operation with very high gain (>25dB) in a very compact footprint. This approach is enabled by advances both in waveguide processing and in substrate growth, which allows for fabrication of complex waveguide structures to be formed in commercially available large-diameter nonlinear optical substrates. Optical comb sources are increasing the achievable sensitivity and system performance for a range of applications including gas sensing, optical communications, frequency metrology, precision spectroscopy and optical coherence tomography and thus directly addresses NASA's mission to advance remote sensing measurements to improve the scientific understanding of the Earth specified in 2009 STTR call: T4.01 Lidar, Radar and Passive Microwave."
Ridge Waveguide Structures in Magnesium-Doped Lithium Niobate,NNX10CB62C,NASA,NASA,STTR,2010,2,599957.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4064060388,,Will Suckow,Principal Investigator,4065220388,suckow@advr-inc.com,"AdvR, Inc. proposes the development of an efficient process for fabricating ridge waveguides in magnesium-doped lithium niobate (MgO:LN). The effort will include, but will not be limited to, fabricating ridge waveguides in periodically poled MgO:LN for highly efficient, single-pass, quasi phase-matched frequency conversion. Ridge waveguides in MgO:LN will significantly improve the performance (power handling and conversion efficiency), increase photonic component integration, and be well suited to space based applications. The key innovation in this effort is to combine recently available large, high photorefractive damage threshold, z-cut 5% MgO:LN with novel ridge fabrication techniques to achieve high optical power, low cost, high volume manufacturing of frequency conversion structures. The ridge waveguide structure maintains the characteristics of the periodically poled bulk substrate, allowing for the efficient frequency conversion typical of waveguides and the high optical damage threshold and long lifetimes typical of the doped bulk substrate."
High Fidelity Down-Conversion Source for Secure Communications using On-Demand Single Photons,NNX10CC88P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,1,99932.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Principal Investigator,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"To provide reliably secure communications, development of quantum optical devices for encrypted ground-to-space communications is a necessity. The overall goal of this NASA effort is to develop and deliver efficient, single-pass quantum optical waveguide sources capable of backward quasi-phase-matched interactions for generation of high purity photon pairs for use in an on-demand photon source to enable high-rate long-distance encryption key distribution. The new devices will produce down-conversion entangled photon pairs with enhanced spectral properties and low attenuation, providing the key technology required for development of an on-demand heralded photon source. Furthermore, the waveguide-based technology is compact, robust, and power efficient for future deployment on space-based platforms to provide provably, unconditionally secure quantum encryption to satisfy requirements for the NASA topic Transformational Communications Technology."
Integrated Planar Lightwave Circuits for UV Generation and Phase Modulation,NNX10CE96P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,1,99979.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley McNeil,Principal Investigator,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort proposes to establish the feasibility of developing a UV Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC); a compact, highly efficient, waveguide-based frequency conversion module for the generation of phase modulated UV radiation for use in multi-wavelength lidar applications such as NASA LaRC's HSRL program. The proposed module will provide phase modulated 355 nm radiation for calibration and stabilization of HSRL's UV interferometric filter, a component required for the accurate measurement of critical aerosol microphysical properties. The goal of the Phase II effort will be the optimization and integration of a compact, monolithic, fiber coupled UV PLC into the next generation HSLR seed laser system. The PLC concept advances NASA's state-of-the-art lidar systems due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, thus enabling use on small aircraft and space based platforms."
Fiber Coupled Pulse Shaper for Sub-Nanosecond Pulse Lidar,NNX10CD52P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,1,99987.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Gregg Switzer,Principal Investigator,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I effort will investigate the feasibility of using electro-optic (EO) beam scanning element to control coupling into a fiber as a fiber coupled pulse shaper. The goal of the pulse shaper is to reduce a 4-6ns pulse to 0.4-0.6ns pulse at 1064nm and/or 532nm at input powers at the 2mJ level. The highest utility of the proposed pulse shaper is its programability allowing it to deliver different pulse widths and different pulse shapes. Although this approach to pulse shaping inherently truncates the power of the input pulse, the shaper will find its greatest value in investigating the optimal pulse shape and parameters in a given optical system. As an added benefit, this technology can be directly morphed into a new type of Q-switch for solid state lasers requiring fewer optics, lower drive voltage and high damage threshold. The proposed effort is broken down into 3 primary tasks: 1) fabricate EO scanning elements, 2) assemble a benchtop pulse shaper for characterization and 3) Investigate drive electronics with sub ns rise times and moderately high voltage."
"Compact, Wavelength Stabilized Seed Source for Multi-Wavelength Lidar Applications",NNX10CB40C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,2,599931.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley McNeil,Principal Investigator,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"NASA LaRC is developing a compact, multi-wavelength High Spectral resolution Lidar (HSRL) system designed to measure various optical and microphysical properties of aerosols and clouds. The HSRL system uses a high power, pulsed, seeded Nd:YAG laser, whose seed is wavelength-stabilized to an iodine vapor absorption line. The primary goal of the Phase II effort is to provide a robust, next generation seed laser system which is significantly reduced in size, weight, and required ""wall-plug"" power for HSRL and other lidar applications. This approach is enabled by use of a suitable compact laser diode source, together with AdvR's integrated Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) technology. Furthermore, AdvR's multi-element waveguide technology will be utilized in this Phase II effort to provide a compact 355nm source, derived from the same seed laser, for calibration of the HSRL UV interferometric filter. A compact, next generation seed laser system utilizing AdvR's PLC and UV technology, integrated with a high performance compact laser diode source will advance NASA's lidar systems due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, thus enabling use on small aircraft and satellites."
Fiber Based Return Signal CO2 Sensing System for Sequestration Site Monitoring,EPD10012,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2010,1,69984.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Justin T. Hawthorne,,,,Justin T. Hawthorne,,,,"A key technology with immediate potential for reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with fossil fuel power plants is carbon sequestration. To ensure successful CO2 sequestration, the ability to monitor leakage from the geologic storage sites and the pipelines delivering the CO2 to those sites is paramount. The goal of this SBIR is to accelerate the development of a low-cost fiber-based sensor system for the detection of low levels of CO2 in the subsurface by leveraging the tunable laser technology already successfully demonstrated for CO2 measurements and combine it with newly available Photonic BandGap (PBG) fibers to produce a rugged sensor with no active components. The system will be in a call/return architecture that will allow for multiple test sites to be monitored while only using one laser source and two detectors. This all fiber-based platform, which can be buried or placed in relatively inaccessible locations, is envisioned to be unaffected by atmospheric disturbances above ground, and is scalable to cover wide areas and distances comparable to those found at CO2 sequestration sites. The proposed instrument, together with AdvRĺs expertise in specialty fiber-based devices, will enable the successful development of a field-deployable system for integration into CO2 sequestration sites, thus meeting the specific requirements in EPA SBIR Solicitation Topic D for innovation source measurement techniques for dispersed sources of GHG emissions."
Sensor System for Super-Pressure Balloon Performance Modeling,NNX10CD79P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,1,99965.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Long-duration balloon flights are an exciting new area of scientific ballooning, enabled by the development of large super-pressure balloons. As these balloons represent a new form of balloon technology, it follows that there is much to be learned about how these balloons behave in flight. There is a need to collect data on the balloon platform itself in order to better characterize its in-flight behavior.
A lightweight suite of sensors will be developed to quantify several variables affecting the balloon. The measurements will include gas temperature inside and outside of the balloon, balloon film strain and temperature, and the aging of the balloon film.
Phase I will involve developing a gas temperature sensing approach, a film strain and aging sensing approach, and an alternate approach to film strain and temperature measurements. Taken as a group, the approaches to be investigated are seen as likely to offer promising solutions to those measurement challenges. They will be tested in the laboratory and in a balloon on the ground.
The ultimate result of the project will be a sensor suite that allows super-pressure balloon behavior and flights to be accurately modeled."
Dropsonde System for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles,NNX10RA52P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,1,99784.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are assuming more numerous and increasingly important roles in global environmental and atmospheric research. There is a corresponding growth in equipment needs for UAVs so that they may meet their mission goals. Some critical measurement needs can only be satisfied by in-situ measurements. Key examples of such measurements include detailed atmospheric profiles, point meteorological conditions on the surface, and in-situ measurements for calibration and validation of remote sensing systems.
A scalable dropsonde launcher will be developed that will be able to fit a range of UAVs. It will be able to launch a variety of dropsondes derived from Anasphere's existing radiosonde and dropsonde families. Dropsondes for high-precision, high-density, and surface-based measurements will be developed.
Phase I will involve designing a launcher that uses an existing Anasphere dropsonde and fits into a representative UAV provided by Vanilla Aircraft. The launcher will be demonstrated in the laboratory and in a high-speed airflow environment.
The ultimate result of the project will be a dropsonde system that can be fitted to many NASA UAVs and enable them to gather in-situ atmospheric profiles and surface measurements using dropsondes."
A NEW BIOSENSOR BASED ON CATASTROPHIC PROTEIN CHANGES,1R43ES017567-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2010,1,106003.00,"ATERIS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",910 Technology Blvd STE G,,Bozeman,MT,59718-,No,No,No,Charles M. Thompson,,,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,Charles M. Thompson,,4602434643,CHARLES.THOMPSON@UMONTANA.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Phase I project will test the idea that mechanostress-sensitive, fluorescent polymers can detect structural changes induced in proteins following reaction of the protein with small molecule inhibitors. This concept
will be tested and proven using recombinant acetylcholinesterase (AChE) an enzyme that is known to undergo catastrophic denaturation when it reacts with organophosphate (OP) inhibitors. The scientific and technical merits of the idea will be tested in thi
s Phase I period, and optimized to define a course of action for a Phase II project. The long-term goal is to develop and commercialize an entirely new class of polymeric sensors based on catastrophic denaturation. In Phase I, we will attach or place rAChE
onto structurally reactive polymer film sensor elements in a manner that retains the enzyme's activity. The rAChE-film will be exposed to OP inhibitors causing the protein to respond structurally. This enzyme-inhibitor denaturation process causes a corres
ponding structural change in the attached reactive thin film, which results in a fluorescent/color change in the polymer that can be detected visually or though instrumental measurements. The principle challenges for this Phase I project are to determine:
(a) if rAChE can be attached or inserted onto a biological matrix or polymeric surface containing a structural response element, and (b) if rAChE retains function when attached to the film and is inhibited when exposed to OP compounds. Project advantages a
re that ATERIS Technologies has developed polymeric response elements, has over three decades of experience with AChE and OP-AChE interactions including the production of recombinant protein. ATERIS will use these combined areas of expertise to accomplish
the following milestones: AIM 1. Attach rAChE (test species) and natural AChE (control) to a model surface membrane (liposome) and ATERIS' polydiacetylene (PDA) thin film and optimize the attachment to retain enzyme function. AIM 2. Visualize a color or fl
uorescence change resulting from the reaction of PDA thin film coated- rAChE or liposome embedded rAChE with an OP insecticide oxon. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: There are 150,000 and 300,000 toxicity incidences reported yearly in the US for exposure to
organophosphate (OP) insecticides and millions treated worldwide. Structurally similar OP chemical nerve agents continue as a threat to civilian and military personnel and can compromise public health, injure or fatally harm humans. Realization of the pro
posed sensor device will allow for rapid assessment of environmental or military OP exposure."
"A Compact, Multimode LADAR For Target Identification Based Upon Joint Optimization of Optical and Computational Resources",FA8650-10-C-1722,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2010,2,734674.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,Chief Executive Officer,(303) 818-1653,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Chief Operations Officer,(406) 920-1339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics (BP) and collaborative partner Montana State University (MSU) propose to utilize feature specific imaging in concert with an innovative actively stabilized FM-CW chirped laser radar source for multi-mode target identification and classification. Feature specific (or compressive) imaging systems project their information directly onto a low-dimensional, predetermined subspace, which is ideally suited for target identification or classification tasks. While such systems have been constructed for 2D passive imaging, they have yet to be extended to active 3D imaging, where they are critical due to the shear amount of information inherent in obtaining the object representation. Under the proposed effort, BP and MSU will work to validate 3D feature specific imaging concepts and provide brassboard demonstrations of a multi-modal laser radar sensor showing the competitive advantages of the technology over conventional approaches. At the end of the effort the team will outline a design for a commercial ready prototype device that could be built and flown with follow on (Phase III) funding. Ideally, the active, multimode sensor would operate at approximately 20 km standoff distances, and provide 30 m fields of view and 0.15 m down range and cross range resolutions of the scene. BENEFIT: On completion of the Air Force Phase II project efforts, Bridger Photonics will have a high-speed, compact, laser-based imaging system with high-resolution ranging and target ID capabilities. The imaging system will be capable of measuring the distance and vibrational signature of targets at short and long ranges (out to 20 km). Because the Bridger system uses feature specific imaging, it has inherent advantages in terms of update rate and hardware/memory resource allocation. Bridger""s use of telecom components allows the system to be highly cost competitive, eye-safe and durable. Bridger Photonics envisions that it will sell these sensors in a variety of military markets ranging from the F35 Joint Strike Fighter to unmanned aerial vehicles like the Predator. The company envisions both machine vision and autonomous navigation commercial market sales."
Hand-Held Sensor for Remotely Mapping Carbon Dioxide Pollution Sources,EPD10056,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2010,2,225000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,,4065852774,,Peter A. Roos,,4065852774,,"In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that carbon dioxide (CO2) is a pollutant under the federal Clean Air Act. The ruling allows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate CO2 emissions. Such regulation will entail monitoring a wide variety of pollution sources, including automobile exhaust systems, industrial emission sources, and carbon sequestration sites. With presently available technologies, EPA personnel will need to perform on-site scans of possible pollution locations by tediously sampling emitted gases with point-source gas-intake measurement devices. This makes it difficult or impossible for EPA personnel to identify or quantify critical CO2 pollution sources such as smokestacks/vents or unknown leaks in large search areas. No technology currently exists that can measure and pinpoint (to within a few meters) the location of elevated CO2 concentrations from a distance.
To address this need, Bridger Photonics, Inc. (Bridger) proposes to develop an inexpensive, rugged, and compact sensor with high-range resolution (meter-level) for on-site CO2 monitoring and spatial mapping from a distance. The proposed technology will enable EPA personnel simply to aim the sensor toward a distant industrial emission stack, for example, to measure the emitted CO2 concentration, the distance to the source, and the spatial extent of the plume. The sensor also could be used to spatially scan CO2 sequestration or industrial sites for leaks and could provide precise three-dimensional coordinate mappings of the emission source.
The proposed device is based on an innovative laser source and a differential detection technique developed during the Phase I effort that were shown to be ideally suited to detect CO2. The Phase II objectives are to: (1) optimize the performance of the laser system, (2) construct a compact optical receiver for detecting atmospheric light detection and ranging (LIDAR) returns, (3) demonstrate the system performance and capabilities for detecting artificial CO2 plumes in atmosphere, and (4) design a preliminary prototype device. Additionally, in the Phase II Commercialization and Verification Options, Bridger will construct, test, and verify a device prototype.
Bridger's propriety differential detection technique and rugged, compact laser will provide distinct competitive advantages in the CO2 sensor market. The recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling combined with an emerging international effort to reduce CO2 emissions established a growing market demand for including future carbon sequestration monitoring markets. Bridger estimates a potential $50 million U.S. market for this hand-held CO2 sensor."
"SBIR Phase I: High Resolution, Low Cost, Compact 3D Imaging System",0945805,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2010,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Brant Kaylor,PhD,4065852774,kaylor@bridgerphotonics.com,Brant Kaylor,PhD,4065852774,kaylor@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will demonstrate a novel, three-dimensional (3D) imaging system concept that combines cutting-edge high-resolution, frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) Laser Radar (LADAR) with powerful Feature Specific Imaging (FSI) techniques. Many applications including autonomous navigation, object recognition, and machine vision would benefit greatly from fast, high-resolution 3D imaging sensors. Unfortunately, existing 3D imaging systems cannot offer the range resolution, speed, or cost effectiveness for these applications due to required specialized hardware such as fast-focal-plane arrays or mechanical scanning components. The combination of broadband FMCW LADAR technology and advanced FSI techniques will enable a 3D imaging system with unrivalled range resolution, no moving parts, and a single detector element, and it will still offer comparable size, frame rates, and cost as current state-of-the-art 2D imaging solutions. The research objectives for this project include demonstrating the critical components and performance of the FMCW LADAR unit, and combining this unit with an advanced FSI physical design and algorithm. This combined system will be used to demonstrate a single pixel 3D imaging system. Lastly, the feasibility of a practical imaging system based on this concept will be assessed.
The broader impact/commercial potential of this project is the development of a practical, low-cost, high-resolution 3D imaging system that has applications including industrial machine vision, vehicle collision avoidance systems, security and surveillance imaging systems, autonomous navigation and object recognition units for robots. The system will therefore improve the quality and efficiency of manufacturing, improve safety on the roadways and the workplace, provide reliable object presence and scene change information for crucial security needs, and advance the perception capabilities of robots. Presently available 3D imaging systems are far too large, slow and costly for these applications. By partnering with established industry leaders, the proposed technology will be developed for these applications. By building key industry partnerships and targeting ideal entry markets, estimated revenues from this product line will grow to nearly $30M by 2014."
Non-Mechanical High Resolution LADAR Based Around A Frequency Swept Optical Source,N68335-10-C-0028,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2010,2,749999.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter Roos,Chief Executive Officer,(406) 585-2774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Chief Operations Officer,(406) 585-2774,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics (BP) and collaborative partner Montana State University (MSU) propose to develop a completely novel, non-mechanical scanning mechanism that will enable a compact, high-resolution, imaging LADAR system for enhanced navigation aid during helicopter brownouts. Such systems are becoming prominent in today""s modernized military especially as the cost in lives and dollars has come to the Navy""s attention. LADAR imaging is needed for increased functionality including enhanced situational awareness, obstacle detection and avoidance during landing. Due to the demanding payload requirements, any enabling technology must be sufficiently rugged, compact and lightweight. BP""s proposed LADAR system will be capable of rapid volumetric scans with resolution up to 1 cm3 over a range of 30 m and a 30degrees x 60degrees field-of-view. The system will utilize an ultra-compact laser source, have no moving parts, and take advantage of a unique heterodyne detection technique to reduce receiver electronic bandwidths and processing requirements making the system robust, compact, extremely sensitive and affordable. Under this proposed effort, the team will build a brassboard, scalable prototype system for both ground and flight tests under harsh atmospheric conditions."
STTR Phase II: Compact Aberration Compensated Focus and Scan Control for Biomedical Sensors,0956910,NSF,NSF,STTR,2010,2,439301.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Brant Kaylor,,4065852774,kaylor@bridgerphotonics.com,Brant Kaylor,,4065852774,kaylor@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II project will develop a commercial prototype of an aberration compensated focus control device. This device, based on a MEMS technology, will allow the user to deflect a deformable membrane mirror in a controlled manner in order to select a desired focal length. The device also features active control of low-order aberrations. This technology will enable the next generation of biomedical imaging devices for microscopy applications by enabling focus control and aberration correction in a simple, compact and low-cost sensor.
The broader impacts of this research are primarily in biomedical imaging. An industry partner is interested in using the technologys aberration correction capabilities to improve skin cancer detection with their confocal microscopy product line. Microscopy and endomicroscopy researchers at the University of Arizona have stated that this technology will be a valuable asset in their research in the fight against cancer. The company will also team with a recognized leader in MEMS technology to enable enhanced imaging capabilities, primarily for imaging in the field of ophthalmology."
Spray on Treatments for Critical Infrastructure Protection,N10PC20041,DHS,DHS,SBIR,2010,2,958000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Cynthia Farrar,,(406) 497-5252,ckfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,,(406) 497-5229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"The success of a Phase I research effort has compelled Resodyn Corporation to submit a Phase II proposal based on an engineered materials approach for preventing, or mitigating the damage caused primarily by blast with some application for projectile, and fire damage. The proposed Spray-on Treatments for Engineered Protection (STEP) system allows flexibility in both the design of the coating and the application. Sprayable material systems are proposed that have demonstrated blast, projectile and fire protection potential. The spray-on application capability allows for conformal coatings of complex geometries. The STEP process holds the promise of economical, moderate level blast, projectile, and fire protection for a great number of the Nation`s critical infrastructures.
"
Modular Perfusion Bioreactor for Tissue Engineering,W81XWH-10-C-0203,DOD,OSD,SBIR,2010,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd McAdams,Principal Investigator,4064975233,tmcadams@resodyn.com,"This project will develop and demonstrate a prototype Modular Perfusion Bioreactor (MPB) for tissue engineering applications. While many unique styles of bioreactors have been proposed for various types of stem cell and tissue cultures, there is not a single, easy-to-use device that accommodates the multiple diverse needs of multiple tissue culture types.. In order to take advantage of recent advances in stem cell culture, biomaterials, and tissue engineering techniques, Resodyn Corporation proposes to develop, design, fabricate, and test a multi-functional bioreactor platform system. As a starting point for this multi-functional system, Resodyn Corporation will use its highly scalable (50-1,500ml) and successful (>1x108 cells/ml) hypoxia perfusion bioreactor. The focus of the proposed work will be to design additional culture modules that can be plugged into an advanced platform system developed by Resodyn Corporation. Modules that allow the culture of cellular monolayers, encapsulated cells, microcarrier-attached cells, and cells attached to scaffolds of various types will be developed and tested for feasibility and applicability. The MPB system has significant long-term commercial potential both in the laboratory and the clinic as a tool to facilitate the translation of stem cell developments into practical replacement tissues for neural, hematopoietic, and mesenchymal lineages."
An Advanced Vibrothermography Approach for Wind Turbine Applications,DE-FG02-09ER85414,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2010,2,1000000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,Mr.,4064975252,LCFarrar@resodyn.com,Peter Lucon,Mr.,4064975212,plucon@resodyn.com,"The reliability of a wind turbine system is greatly impacted by hidden defects. An improved method of inspection is sought for manufactured composite materials. Also, field inspection methods to assure quality during and after installation are required. The ultimate goal of this project is to provide a reliable, portable, instrumentation deployment system that can be utilized during wind turbine composite members manufacturing, at the time of installation, and throughout the lifetime of a wind turbine system. An advanced Vibrothermography technique developed by this work will be designed to detect and characterize the manufacturing flaws and the damage done to turbine blades and supporting structures thought their service life. Algorithms will be derived to distinguish and determine the types of manufacturing defects, shipping damage, and fatigue related failure flaw types. The feasibility to generate heat in embedded flaws, surface flaws, surface cracks, and subsurface cracks in glass/epoxy composite samples and to thermographically detect those flaws was demonstrated. The energy and transmissibility of the sound waves used to excite the flaws was demonstrated at a flaw to excitation transducer distance of 24 inches for samples up to 2 inches thick. The Phase II project goal is a prototype development platform capable of demonstrating the technology on actual wind turbine components. The information from the demonstration/qualification test will be compared to other test methods, which are being explored through the Sandia led wind blade reliability collaborative for the DOE EERE Wind and Water program. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: Yearly operation and maintenance costs are approximately 30% of the total cost of a wind turbine. The proposed improved inspection technology can reduce manufacturing flaws, improved detecting field flaws during operation, and generally improve system reliability and therefore reduce maintenance costs. The overall net benefit to the public will be lower operating cost resulting in lower customer rates. An additional benefit of the proposed technology is that a final commercial system will include software algorithms for"
Feasibility Test of Seedster Technology to Improve Quantity and Quality of Carrot and Yarrow Seed,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2010,1,90000.00,"NATIVE SEEDSTERS, INC","100 POLY DRIVE, SUITE 150",,Billings,MT,59101 0112,No,No,No,Maggie Arbuckle,Corporate Secretary/CFO,4062942995,info@nativeseedsters.com,F. L. Arbuckle,President/CEO,4062942995,lee@nativeseedsters.net,"The production of hybrid carrot seed is difficult because of the indeterminacy of ripening and the tendency to shatter mature seeds. The umbel (flat-top cluster) inflorescences (seedheads) of carrots mature sequentially over a 3-4 week period. The primary (king) umbel matures first, followed by the secondary and tertiary umbels. The standard harvest method is to swath when the primary and many of the secondary umbel have reached maturity. After 3-7 days of drying in the windrow the material is run through a combine. Some of the secondary umbels and most of the tertiary umbels are immature, producing seed with poor viability or failing to produce any viable seed at all. If the crop is direct combined, even less viable seed is recovered. Growers are presently unable to harvest all of the potential seed that the carrot plants are capable of producing. The same is true for wildflowers such as western yarrow. This plant has corymb inflorescences (flat-top clusters similar to umbels) that also mature over a 3-4 week period. Stands will have brown (mature), green (developing) and white (still flowering) inflorescences at the same time. With single event harvests, such as direct combining or swathing and combining from a cured windrow, only a fraction of the potential seed production is captured and some of that seed may have low viability. Native Seedsters, Inc. proposes to test the feasibility of Seedster technology to difficult-to-harvest seed of a dry vegetable (carrot) and a native wildflower (western yarrow). The patented Seedster technology consists of counter-rotating brush and combing drum which create a pinch-point where mature seed are dislodged (plucked) from the inflorescence, while immature inflorescences are left intact and allowed to continue to mature and be harvested at a later time. Seedster technology makes it possible for multiple harvests; harvesting seed as it matures, thus increasing the quantity and quality of seed captured from non-uniform ripening crops. Trials will be conducted using a highly adjustable Test-Bed model Seedster, varying pinch-point spacing, brush bristle density, combing drum surface configurations, brush and comb rotating speed and forward ground speed. If the Seedster is able to increase harvestability of carrot and yarrow then this technology may be applied to other difficult-to-harvest dry vegetables such as lettuce and onion and native wildflowers such as aster, biscuitroot and buckwheat that are indeterminate in ripening and are prone to shatter. The Seedster was originally designed to harvest grass seed, but potentially can be used to harvest dry vegetables, wildflowers and specialty biofuel crops such as camelina and meadow foam."
"Seedster Technology for More Seed Recovery, Less Impurities and Faster Ground Speed Harvesting Camelina for Biodiesel Feedstock",,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2010,2,400000.00,"NATIVE SEEDSTERS, INC","100 POLY DRIVE, SUITE 150",,Billings,MT,59101 0112,No,No,No,Maggie Arbuckle,Corporate Secretary/CFO,4062942995,info@nativeseedsters.com,Lee Arbuckle,President/CEO,4062942995,info@nativeseedsters.com,"Camelina seed production is expanding throughout the semi-arid portion of the wheat belt and is proposed for intercropping between rows in vineyards and nut orchards. These markets and the market need for small maneuverable harvesters for research plots and breeder blocks have created a need for an inexpensive, but efficient, camelina harvester. The Seedster has the potential for meeting the demand for a camelina harvester that is inexpensive, variable width, maneuverable, has quick seed unloading and rapid cleanout. In Phase I Native Seedsters, Inc. (NSI) tested the basic Seedster technology which consists of counter-rotating brush and combing drum. The space in-between the brush and comb creates a 'pinch-point' where seed is plucked from the plant inflorescence. The first harvest of camelina with a Seedster resulted in a product that was 50% (by weight) seed, 40% seed capsule halves and 10% stems. In commercial camelina seed production the receiving elevators allows only 4.5% tare. To improve upon the purity of Seedster harvested seed a screening device was designed and tested. This device consisted of semi-cylindrical 9/64"" round-hole screen which housed a 9"" auger. During the second year of the Phase I project the seed purity was improved from 50% to 97% with the addition of the screening device. Although Phase I met or exceeded 4 of the 5 Performance Goals, the seed recovery efficiency was still not high enough to be competitive. In Phase I, the 40"" Test-Bed Seedster capture only 59% of the total seed from stands yielding 1,100 lbs/acre and 70% of the seed in stands yielding 550 lbs/acre. The seed loss was attributed to a) seed shatter upon initial contact with the main brush, b) seed carry over on the combing drum and c) seed that 'stalled out' in the dislodgement chamber and fell back out the pinch-point because of insufficient airflow to carry the seed all the way to the seed hopper. In the Phase I Test-Bed the majority of the airflow for transporting the dislodged seed to the seed hopper was created by the main brush, with supplemental air and direction created by the air assist brush. In Phase I this airflow was insufficient to transport all of the heavy, rounded camelina seed to the seed hopper. In Phase II, a 60"" Test-Bed Seedster will be assembled that is capable of configuration and reconfigurations to address these seed losses. The air-assist brush will be replaced with a tangential flow fan, positioned behind the combing drum to direct and propel all dislodged seed from the dislodgement chamber into the collection hopper, eliminating carry-over on the combing drum. The combing drum will be adjusted forward, thus making the distance between the pinch-point and the point of initial contact closer, reducing initial shatter. Various brush bristle densities and various combing drum surfaces (greater static friction) will be tested for maximizing seed dislodgement. An 8/64"" round-hole screen will be tested in the screening device to try to improve seed purity to 99%. If the Phase II Performance Goals are met the Seedster will be a viable camelina seed harvest alternative for many farmers and researchers."
Potent Antifolates as New Therapeutics for MRSA,2R42AI065143-02A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2010,2,1517864.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,Dana E. Warren,,406-864-0022,dana.e.warren@mail.promiliad.com,Dennis L. Wright,,860-486-9451,dennis.l.wright@mail.promiliad.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Phase II STTR proposal describes a collaborative effort between researchers in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Connecticut and Promiliad Biopharma to develop efficacious antibiotics targeting both methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Streptococcus pyogenes. We have recently completed a Phase I STTR grant that was focused on developing agents against the parasitic protozoan Cryptosporidium hominis by targeting the essential enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Through this work we developed the most potent and selective inhibitors of this enzyme reported to date and showed efficacy against the cultured parasite. In parallel with these efforts targeting Cryptosporidium, we examined the generality of this compound class to inhibit DHFR from other pathogenic organisms and found that this scaffold can be customized to potently target a wide range of pathogenic DHFR enzymes, including that from MRSA and Streptococcus pyogenes. We intend to capitalize on the high-profile nature of these organisms by switching the focus of our first proof-of-concept antibiotic. We have shown that the compounds effectively inhibit the growth of various phenotypes of MRSA and Streptococcus pyogenes. Moreover, we have determined several high-resolution crystal structures of the pathogenic MRSA enzyme in complex with representative inhibitors, placing us in a strong position to further develop these new antibiotics. The efforts to develop an efficacious candidate compound will evolve through three specific aims. In the first Aim, we will complete an initial analog series and select two lead compounds to move forward into animal studies in the second specific aim. These studies will determine key pharmacokinetic parameters (bioavailability, half-life) for our compounds as well as determine efficacy in an animal model of infection. In the third specific aim, we will explore new, structure-based designs to enhance the selectivity of our compounds for the pathogenic forms of DHFR over the human homolog. Completion of these studies will position us to attract outside investors and partners to progress our compounds for an IND application. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Despite decades of work on the discovery of antibiotics, the continued emergence of resistance organisms threatens to render many of our best antibiotics obsolete. We are working to develop new agents against that function as effective monotherapies against the methicillin-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Streptococcus pyogenes. Specifically we are targeting the essential enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) that is required by the bacteria to synthesize key components needed to replicate its genetic material."
Innovative Photonic Time Delay Units for Radar Applications,HQ0006-10-C-7209,DOD,MDA,STTR,2010,2,999229.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian D. Merkel,President / CEO,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Kristian D. Merkel,PI,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"We aim to build and demonstrate an innovative photonic true time delay solution which alleviates the fundamental problem of cascaded optical switches, and additionally offers several significant benefits. The device uses wideband spatial-spectral (S2) holographic optical memory materials to store and access several broadband time delay gratings. Broadband optical chirps are used to create these time delay gratings, and the control mechanism is an RF tone, not an optical switch. Each filter can extend over GHz of bandwidth, and can be individually programmed. Hundreds of time delay filters can be stored in a single small volume of S2 material (human hair sized). The delay gratings are probed by radar signal modulated onto an optical laser carrier, and the S2 material creates a true-time delayed replicas of the signal, which is then photodectected at the array element. Delays of interest are accessed by fast optical frequency switching. One S2 crystal spot per array element is needed, and many spots (hundreds to thousands) can be used in one S2 crystal."
High-Resolution Wide-Bandwidth Optical Arbitrary Waveform Generation Over Extended Time Apertures,W91CRB-10-C-0070,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2010,2,749931.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian Merkel,President / CEO,(406) 922-0334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Peter Sellin,Photonics Engineer,(406) 922-0334,sellin@s2corporation.com,"We aim to build a prototype device for optical arbitrary waveform generation and use it for demonstrations of performance. The device is based on coherent accumulation and interference of spectrally shaped waveforms using low bandwidth control electronics (less than 1 GHz) to achieve wideband optical arbitrary waveform generation with time apertures of up to 50 us, complete control of optical phase and amplitude, bandwidths up to 100 GHz, and a spectral resolution as narrow as 20 kHz. This technology enables wideband agile waveform generation for communication, sensor, and surveillance applications."
SBIR Phase I: Using Simulations for Large-Scale Assessment of Higher-Order Thinking Skills,0944938,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2010,1,150000.00,SimBiotic Software,"1280 S. 3rd, Second Floor",,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,Joel K. Abraham,BA,2126589104,abraham@simbio.com,Joel K. Abraham,BA,2126589104,abraham@simbio.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will attempt to develop a prototype for an online, simulation-based toolset for auto-assessing higher-order thinking skills and technological literacy. These skills are widely acknowledged as important and are included in state and federal science standards, but there are currently few effective means to assess whether students are learning them. The project will use an existing system that allows rapid prototyping of educational simulations to develop test scenarios that provide information on five categories of higher-order thinking. These scenarios will match student actions within a simulation to both correct and incorrect reasoning patterns, and can be easily modified to different contexts.
Standardized tests are critically important to directing what is taught in our nation's schools. Although educational standards across the country emphasize technological literacy and higher-order thinking, state and national education tests continue to rely primarily on short-answer and selection type questions that are insufficient for measuring higher-order skills. This system aims to provide a better means with which to assess student performance in these areas at an affordable price, and will also pioneer a more flexible, customizable way of designing test items that will reduce the costs associated with the development and validation of new test items. If successful, these simulation-based testing scenarios will allow for improved evaluation of student reasoning skills and technological literacy, especially as class sizes increase and remote instruction becomes more commonplace."
CytoBeaker: Teaching cell biology using simulated experiments,0944281,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2010,1,150000.00,SimBiotic Software,"1280 S. 3rd, Second Floor",,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,Eli Meir,PhD,6172852583,meir@simbio.com,Eli Meir,PhD,6172852583,meir@simbio.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project will attempt to take agent-based simulation models being written for cell biology research and write a new cell biology modeling framework to be used for teaching cell biology at the undergraduate and high school level. Research models in cell biology are too complex and computationally intensive for use in education below the graduate level. However, the visualization and ability to perform realistic experiments inherent in the agent-based modeling approach is ideal for educational uses. This project will combine the scientific expertise of one of the leading centers for cellular models with the educational expertise of one of the leading companies producing biology education software to create a series of simulation-based online teaching modules for undergraduate cell biology classes.
Cell and molecular biology are core topics in biology classes at both high school and college levels and are some of the most active fields of biological research, as well as being important for medical fields. Although the topics covered in cell biology are fascinating, they are currently often taught in very passive ways. Active learning approaches are now widely acknowledged to improve students understanding and retention of many scientific concepts. This project will produce a set of active teaching materials for cell biology students, improving their understanding of cellular processes, and thus improving their ability to become our countries future researchers and medical personnel. The materials should be very attractive to an $18 million/year market in cell biology teaching materials."
Medical Operations Decision Support System,NNX10CA93C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2010,2,580702.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur W. Molin,Program Manager,2816365592,amolin@ska-corp.com,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,2816365592,amolin@ska-corp.com,"Risks associated with possible medical events during space missions are challenging to identify and manage. Resources must be applied judiciously and risk must not be ignored. NASA's researchers need the capability to identify the risks that arise from the potential medical events, gather all of the published evidence that is available, analyze the probability and severity of the risks, plan to mitigate the risks, investigate the interdependencies between risks and mitigation strategies, track and control the information, and support informed decisions about risks and risk mitigation strategies.
S&K Aerospace (SKA) proposes an innovative Web-based system to support the continuous management of medical risk for future space missions. We propose to provide users with the ability to create and maintain a repository of medical risk information, including information about the probability of the risks and the severity of the outcomes. Users will be able to associate outside data with the risk information to support the decisions made regarding the risks. Users will also be able to plan mitigation strategies for the risks, to plan risk mitigation strategies across multiple missions, and to balance the interactions between risk mitigation strategies on a single mission. A continuous risk management system requires that the risks be re-evaluated as contributing factors change, as additional information is learned about the probabilities and consequences of the risks, and simply as time passes."
Development and Testing of Recombinant Clostridia for Cancer Therapy,1R41RR032319-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2010,1,179762.00,"SGM BIOTECH, INC.",10 EVERGREEN DR,,BOZEMAN,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Eric S. Gillitxer,,406-585-9535,egillitzer@sgmbiotech.com,Eric S. Gillitzer,,406-585-9535,egillitzer@sgmbiotech.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This STTR application is to develop and test for eventual clinical use a new strategy for tumor specific anticancer drug delivery. The technology, Clostridia-directed enzyme prodrug therapy, or CDEPT, exploits the factthat certain non-pathogenic bacteria of the Clostridia genus, which only grow in the absence of oxygen (hypoxia), colonize the hypoxic and necrotic areas that are unique to solid tumors. Growth of these bacteria in these areas can be exploited by engineering the bacteria to produce an enzyme, not normally present in humans that will convert a non-toxic prodrug into a toxic drug. Following i.v. injection of spores of the recombinant clostridia, germination of the spores and production of the prodrug activating enzyme occurs solely in the tumors. Since the enzyme is only in the tumor, the prodrug is converted to the toxic drug only in the tumor, hence targeting the cytotoxic activity of the drug selectively to the tumor. We will use a Clostridial species, C. sporogenes, that has been shown (in its non-engineered state) to be well tolerated in human patients, and a new anticancer drug, PR-104, which has recently entered clinical testing and which is highly toxic to cells when it is metabolized by the E. coli nitroreductase (NTR) enzyme (the enzyme that we have engineered C. sporogenes to express). We have demonstrated the efficacy of the combination of our C. sporogenes expressing NTR with PR-104 in rodent tumor models. Our overall goal in this STTR is to combine the expertise of SGM Biotech, which has manufactured C. sporogenes spores under GMP conditions for the past 15 years, with the Brown laboratory at Stanford University, which has genetically engineered C. sporogenes for the CDEPT strategy, to develop the organism for eventual clinical testing. We have three specific aims to achieve this goal: 1) Integrate the Clostridial codon optimized E. coli NTR gene into the genome of C. sporogenes (Stanford University). 2) Produce the recombinant C. sporogenes with the integrated E. coli NTR gene in sufficient quantities to conduct the initial safety and efficacy studies at Stanford University (SGM Biotech), and 3) Test the expression and efficacy (with PR-104) of the GMP produced recombinant C. sporogenes with tumor bearing mice (Stanford University). This project, if successful, will enable clinical testing of the specific delivery of a cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agent to solid tumors in patients thereby enhancing antitumor activity and minimizing normal tissue toxicity. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This STTR proposal presents a unique strategy for targeting effective killing concentrations of a specific chemotherapeutic agent to solid tumors. The approach we are proposing prevents indirect toxic effectson the animal as a whole, but allows for killing concentrations of the drug to be achieved specifically in the tumor, as we are directly activating the drug only in the tumors."
Use of the halophyte Sarcocornia utahensis as a phytoremediation strategy for the amelioration of saline-sodic impacted soils . . .,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2009,1,79938.00,BLUE MOON BULBS LLP,110 PROGRESSIVE DR,,Belgrade,MT,59714-9141,Yes,No,No,Laura Y. Smith,President,4063881116,westscapenursery@yahoo.com,Laura Y. Smith,President,4063881116,westscapenursery@yahoo.com,"The environmental impacts of coal bed methane development (CBM) in Montana and the Rocky Mountain States are well documented. CBM exploration is expanding rapidly with the nation's focus on energy independence and the relative ease of extraction. Extraction of CBM necessitates pumping large volumes of often saline discharge waters to the surface. The impacts of those waters include: reductions in the quality and quantity of surface and sub-surface waters for drinking and agricultural purposes; increased salt levels to drainage wetlands and major river systems which can increase the salt levels of irrigation water; increased contamination of surface water; loss of productive agricultural rangeland; irreversible physical and chemical damage to agricultural and rangeland soils; changes in native plant communities and dependent wildlife; and increased soil erosion and resultant dust pollution. The EPA has stated that CBM development is the single greatest environmental challenge facing the Intermountain West. Between 2 to 4 trillion gallons of discharge water will be pumped on to the surface in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming and Montana alone over the next 20 years. CBM development is also at center stage of an enormous amount of litigation involving landowners, state and federal agencies, energy exploration companies, environmental groups, and in some cases between states (Montana vs. Wyoming), as rivers and aquifers traverse state boundaries. The use of plants to remove various pollutants from soil and water (phytoremediation) is an area receiving widespread attention. Phytoremediation is seen as a relatively ""low-tech"" methodology for ameliorating pollutants and is far more cost effective than complex treatment facilities. Halophytes are a group of salt resistant plants which have demonstrated abilities to evaporate large volumes of saline water and to remove substantial amounts of detrimental salts from impacted soils. The use and efficacy of these plants in many temperate/tropical areas of the world is well established. The goal of this research is to develop a cost effective, cold climate, plant-based system to remediate saline impacted soils lands in Montana and Wyoming so that native vegetation or saline tolerant agricultural crops could be re-established. The optimal outcome will be a situation where land owners, exploration companies, agronomists, wetland engineers and government agencies will work together to establish and manage these salt remediating species in conjunction with dispersal of discharge waters. The expected long-term benefits of this research include: remediation of salinized lands, improved water quality for both human and agricultural purposes, reduction of CBM impacts on associated wetlands, soil erosion, native plant communities, and dependent wildlife populations. Several of the candidate species identified by Westcape also bring the additional benefits of being a potential source for non-food biofuel for localized use as well as a large scale carbon sequestration mechanism."
Ridge Waveguide Structures in Magnesium-Doped Lithium Niobate,NNX09CF63P,NASA,NASA,STTR,2009,1,99843.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,4065220388,,Will Suckow,Principal Investigator,4065220388,suckow@advr-inc.com,"In this NASA Phase I STTR effort, the feasibility of fabricating isolated ridge waveguides in 5% magnesium-doped lithium niobate (5% MgO:LN) will be established. Ridge waveguides in MgO:LN will significantly improve the power handling and conversion efficiency, increase photonic component integration, and be well suited to space based applications. The key innovation in this effort is to combine recently available large, high photorefractive damage threshold, z-cut 5% MgO:LN with novel ridge fabrication techniques to achieve high optical power, low cost, high volume manufacturing of frequency conversion structures. The proposed ridge waveguide structure should maintain the characteristics of the periodically poled bulk substrate, allowing for the efficient frequency conversion typical of waveguides and the high optical damage threshold and long lifetimes typical of the 5% doped bulk substrate. The low cost and large area of 5% MgO:LN wafers and the improved performance of the proposed ridge waveguide structure will enhance existing measurement capabilities as well as reduce the resources required to achieve high performance specifications. For these reasons, the development of ridge waveguides in 5% MgO:LN directly addresses NASA's Innovative Sensors, Detectors and Instruments for Science Applications, STTR subtopic T4.01: Lidar, Radar and Coherent Fiber Bundle Arrays."
Fabrication of Advanced Waveguide Structures for Efficient Violet and Near-UV Generation,,DOC,NIST,SBIR,2009,1,89943.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Christopher Kaleva,,4065220388,kaleva@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort will establish the feasibility of fabricating advanced waveguide structures in potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) capable of efficiently generating 25 to 40 mW of frequency converted light in the 395 to 480 nm. The key innovation in this effort is to utilize KTP waveguides in a single-pass frequency doubling device to efficiently produce the desired laser wavelengths and power. This approach is enabled by advances in waveguide processing which allows for the fabrication of uniform waveguide structures to be formed in commercially available KTP in conjunction with AdvR┐s patented submount poling technique. The results of this effort will lead to a compact, robust frequency doubling package suitable for operation in the 395 to 480 nm range with output powers of 25 to 40 mW which meets the objectives of the NIST SBIR topic 9.12.09-4.R Generation of Violet and Near-UV Radiation."
"Compact, Wavelength Stabilized Seed Source for Multi-Wavelength Lidar Applications",NNX09CF20P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2009,1,99953.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley McNeil,Principal Investigator,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort proposes to establish the feasibility of developing a compact, high performance laser source for integration into the next generation seed laser system for high stability, multi-wavelength lidar applications such as NASA Langley's HSRL program. Combination of the high performance laser source together with ADVR's integrated Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) technology will provide the electro-optic control signals required for precise locking of the seed source to a reference wavelength. A next generation seed laser system which incorporates the PLC concept, together with improvements in the source laser technology will advance NASA's lidar systems due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, thus enabling use on small aircraft and space based platforms. The focus of the Phase II effort will be the optimization and integration of this technology into the next generation HSLR seed laser system with > a 50% reduction in weight, size and cost."
Electro-Optic Tunable Laser Sensor,NNX09CF37P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2009,1,99977.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Principal Investigator,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a compact, rugged, rapidly and widely tunable laser based on a quantum cascade diode laser at mid-infrared wavelengths. The key innovation in this effort is the use of an engineered electro-optic tuning element in an external cavity laser to provide control of the laser wavelength through an applied voltage. AdvR has previously demonstrated the feasibility of large tuning range matching that of mechanically tuned lasers, yet also offering low cost, smaller size, robustness, portability, and tuning speed that is faster by six orders of magnitude. The Phase I effort will investigate adapting the external cavity tuning techniques to quantum cascade lasers to generate tunable wavelengths for mid-infrared spectroscopy."
High Efficiency Up conversion Single-Photon-Detector for 1550 nm Signal,,DOC,NIST,SBIR,2009,2,299993.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,This NIST Phase II SBIR effort will two low noise single photon detectors using MgO doped LiNbO3 (LN) periodically poled waveguides and a 980nm (or similar appropriate wavelength) pump to up convert 1550nm photons to 600nm to allow for detection by photomultiplier tube (PMT). The key innovation is using low noise periodically poled waveguides with a long wavelength (1800nm) pump leading to higher efficiency single photon detectors when used with PMTs or Silicon-based avalanche photo diode single photon detectors (Si-APD). Use of waveguide Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) for 1550nm to 600 nm up-conversion cou0pled with inexpensive and very efficient PMT or SI-APD technology is expected to significantly increase single photon detection efficiency while maintaining long fiber optic transmission distance for quantum communication networks and quantum-key-distribution (QKD) systems.
Periodically Poled Materials for UV Generation,W911NF-09-C-0127,DOD,DARPA,STTR,2009,1,99965.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy Heckel,Treasurer,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Senior Laser Physicist,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"Army quantum information researchers have an immediate need for improved stable, narrowband violet and UV laser sources with 10-100 mW output and 10 MHz-10 GHz tuning. These sources are required for numerous ion and atom qubits functions including photoionization, Doppler cooling, state initialization, and detection. The cost and complexity of currently available UV lasers hampers current efforts and impedes scale-up to systems with more qubits. Simple, compact, fiber-output sources based on single-pass nonlinear frequency conversion in periodically poled materials will reduce the time and money spent on lasers and create a path toward more sophisticated ion traps requiring larger numbers of UV sources. Periodically poled materials currently being developed offer a clear path to fulfill this goal through up-conversion of commercially available IR lasers. Under the proposed Phase I effort, AdvR will establish the feasibility of fabricating suitable periodically poled materials using newly available substrates with improved properties for UV generation."
SONOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS FOR RAPID DETECTION OF VARROA MITES AND OTHER PATHOLOGIES WITHOUT OPENING THE BEEHIVE,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2009,2,350000.00,"BEE ALERT TECHNOLOGY, INC.",1620 RODGERS ST STE 1,,Missoula,MT,59802 1714,No,Yes,No,Robert Seccomb,CFO - Information Systems Manager,4065413160,rseccomb@beealert.blackfoot.net,Robert Seccomb,CFO - Information Systems Manager,4065413160,rseccomb@beealert.blackfoot.net,"Beekeeping is a billion dollar industry, of which honey production plays only a small part. Most beekeepers make their money with crop pollination, charging up to $120 per hive for this service. Crop growers want healthy, strong colonies. It takes a skilled beekeeper about 10 minutes to inspect a colony; the Colony Health Scanner performs the same function in about 2 minutes, and can be operated by relatively unskilled labor. The bee keeping operation with a Colony Health Scanner will be more efficient, save money, and provide healthier bees."
Hand-Held Sensor for Remotely Mapping Carbon Dioxide Pollution Sources,EP-D-09-015,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2009,1,70000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,"President, Sr. Laser Scientist",4065852774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Peter A. Roos,"President, Sr. Laser Scientist",4065852774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,"In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that carbon dioxide (CO2) is a pollutant under the federal Clean Air Act. The ruling allows the EPA to regulate CO2 emissions. Such regulation will entail monitoring a wide variety of pollution sources including automobile exhaust systems, industrial emission sources, and carbon sequestration sites. With presently available technologies, EPA personnel will need to perform on-site scans of possible pollution locations by tediously sampling emitted gases with point-source gas-intake measurement devices. Current CO2 stand-off measurement instruments, such as laser remote sensors, do not provide spatial identification or mapping of the pollution source. This makes it difficult or impossible for EPA personnel to identify or quantify CO2 pollution sources and plumes, such as those form a smokestack or vent. There currently exists no technology that can measure and pinpoint (to within a meter) the location of elevated CO2 concentrations from a distance. To address this need, Bridger Photonics, Inc. proposes developing an inexpensive, rugged and hand-held sensor with high range resolution for on-site CO2 monitoring and spatial mapping from a distance. The proposed effort will enable EPA personnel to, for instance, simply aim the sensor toward a distant industrial emission stack to measure the emitted CO2 concentration, the distance to the source, and the spatial extent of the plume. The sensor could also be used to spatially could also be used to spatially scan CO2 sequestration or industrial sites for leaks and could provide precise 3D coordinate mapping of the emission source. The proposed device will be based on an innovative laser source that possesses the ideal characteristics for sensitively probing CO2 plumes with high spatial resolution. The Phase I objectives are to 1) demonstrate laser emission to the ideal wavelength for mid-range CO2 sensing, 2) demonstrate range-resolved CO2 measurements, and 3) design and model the sensor to address the targeted market. The predictive device performance includes: 1) meter-level spatial resolution, 2) the ability to measure a 1-m CO2 plume with less than double the atmospheric concentration at a 100-m distance, and 3) the ability to measure typical industrial CO2 emissions from stand-off distances of at least 500 meters. These capabilities, along with the compact, rugged design, will provide Bridger Photonics distinct competitive advantages in the CO2 sensor market. The recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling combined with emerging international effort to reduce CO2 emissions establishes a growing market demand for this type of hand-held CO2 sensor. Bridger Photonics estimates a potential $59M U.S. market for this device not including predicted carbon sequestration monitoring markets. The device till integrate seamlessly with Bridger Photonics other laser-based sensor, which will uncover illicit methamphetamine labs."
"STTR Phase II: Compact, Low-cost Remote Sensing of Methamphetamine Labs",0848972,NSF,NSF,STTR,2009,2,500000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,PhD,3038181653,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Peter A. Roos,PhD,3038181653,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II project addresses an urgent law enforcement need for a sensitive, portable, low-cost, laser remote sensor to detect illicit methamphetamine (meth) production labs from a distance. The research objectives are to: 1. Refine, optimize, and package laser subsystem, 2. Design, construct, and optimize receiver subsystem, 3. Integrate laser and receiver subsystems onto compact breadboard and test, 4. Design and construct first-revision prototype. To accomplish these objectives, the team and Montana State University will optimize the performance of the critical high-energy, narrowband, mid-infrared pulsed laser system that was developed under the Phase I effort. The laser subsystem will be miniaturized and packaged for use in the sensor and for direct sales to bootstrap the sensor commercialization. The receiver subsystem will be designed, constructed, and optimized for performance, size, weight, and cost. The laser and receiver subsystems will be integrated and the unit will be field-tested. The first revision prototype will then be designed and constructed, incorporating identified improvements and modifications,
and law enforcement customer input. Meth use in our country has reached epidemic levels. It is considered the most addictive illicit drug, can be easily produced with widely available and inexpensive ingredients, and is rapidly becoming more popular with young adults. Almost 1/5 of 2003 federal sentences were meth related and the state of Illinois estimates a $2B/yr meth-related burden. In 2005, 65% of Montana?s young adults reported that meth is ?very or somewhat easy? to obtain. Meth?s abundance is often attributed to the fact that it is alarmingly easy to produce in makeshift clandestine labs (in homes, apartments, motels, storage facilities, etc). These labs also pose lethal hazards to law enforcement, first responders, and children inhabitants. Washington State reported that children are or have been at 35% of the lab sites. Although 2005 legislation restricting the sale of a key meth ingredient reduced the number of labs, there is now resurgence. Moreover, the labs are becoming increasingly difficult for drug enforcement to uncover as the producers become more sophisticated and mobile. Drug enforcement personnel on local, national, and international levels require the ability to detect meth labs rapidly and in widely varying locations and circumstances. If successful law the outcome of the project will enable enforcement personnel to have a higher success rate in detecting these meth manufacturing laboratories."
SBIR Phase I: Fast and Accurate Laser Distance Metrology,0912927,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2009,1,100000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Randy R. Reibel,PhD,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy R. Reibel,PhD,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I research project will demonstrate the feasibility of a high-precision optical metrology system that meets a current market need for extremely precise distance measurements with rapid update rates. The project will actively stabilize newly developed Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) tunable Vertical Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSEL) that can be rapidly tuned mode-hop-free over 6 terahertz. Using a Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technique, this system has the potential to reach 25 micrometer resolutions and sub-10-nanometer precisions in real time. Extensive experience in laser stabilization will help to overcome the daunting challenge of stabilizing and linearizing the frequency sweep of the VCSEL sources, which inherently exhibit significant frequency noise. These VCSELs, however, offer sweep rates 100-1,000 times faster than competing technologies and would therefore enable the same enhancement in the system?s update rate. At short ranges, the system can be used for industrial metrology and precision manufacturing. At medium ranges, the system can be used for navigational aids including pilot assistance for landing in brownout conditions. This application has the significant potential to save the lives of airmen and passengers in unprepared landing zones. At long ranges, the system can be used to accurately position sparse aperture telescopes and formations of nano-satellites. This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5)."
"A Compact, Multimode LADAR For Target Identification Based Upon Joint Optimization of Optical and Computational Resources",FA8650-09-M-1558,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2009,1,100000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter Roos,Cheif Executive Officer,4065852774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Cheif Operations Officer,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics proposes to prove the feasibility of an innovative method for multi-mode target identification. To achieve this system, the team will combine the most advanced ultra-high-resolution FM-CW LADAR unit in existence with state-of-the-art feature-specific computational imaging concepts. This marriage will enable the team to identify and realize the truly optimal solution to the Air Force target identification need. Our team will actively illuminate scenes and project them onto non-image-like, low-dimensional subspaces that are specifically optimized for the Air Force''s target recognition and classification needs. We will examine available active sensing modes as well as the optical and computational resources available, and then jointly optimize these resources to obtain a preliminary multi-mode LADAR design. We will then identify the optical source, the critical optical and electrical components and demonstrate these enabling technologies. We will additionally perform ""to scale"" resolution demonstrations of the system''s jointly optimized optical / computational preliminary design and demonstrate the capability for rapid and accurate target identifications. Once this testing stage is completed, the team will utilize the lessons learned to form a final design and determine its feasibility. Our world class team includes experts from Bridger Photonics, the University of Arizona, and Montana State University BENEFIT: This system will offer LADAR imaging with resolutions and speeds that have never before been achieved. The system will directly and immediately benefit the Air Force, but the system''s capabilities will also extend to other military and reconnaissance high-resolution imaging applications."
Spray-on Composite System for Low Frequency Acoustic Mitigation,N00178-09-C-1034,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2009,2,500000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Peter Lucon,Principal Investigator,4064975212,plucon@resodyn.com,"This Phase II proposal addresses the need for an innovative, affordable spray-on material system that mitigates low frequency acoustic radiation through a ship hull induced by airborne noise in shipboard compartments containing various electro-mechanical systems. The Phase I project objectives were fully achieved and the results exceeded the U.S. Navy project requirements. The acoustic mitigation technology developed provided, on average, an order of magnitude of additional frequency transmission loss relative to the current U.S. Navy treatment for frequencies below 200 Hz. At the same time, the proposed treatment also provided comparable high frequency transmission loss performance within the same weight limit (-s 3 psf), but at one-half the thickness of the conventional treatment. The Phase II project takes technology from demonstrated feasibility through product development, qualification, and establishes the platform for application on U.S. Navy ships. This is accomplished by the development and demonstration of both prototype materials and application equipment suited for larger scale applications. The full size demonstrations will be used to prove scalability of the technology and compliance with Naval requirements related to acoustic insulation (ASTM E90) and fire safety (ASTM E84 tests). In addition, a cost benefit analysis for the proposed technology will be completed."
STTR Phase I: Field-Applicable Anticorrosion Coatings Using Polyaniline Nanofibers,0930709,NSF,NSF,STTR,2009,1,150000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Manfred Biermann,DSc,4064975252,jberger@resodyn.com,Manfred Biermann,DSc,4064975252,jberger@resodyn.com,"This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5). This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project involves the development and characterization of a new type of active anticorrosion coating with zero VOC, zero HAP, and zero heavy metal content. The coating will have no solvent or carrier, no drying time, and no curing time. This coating is based on a method, newly discovered at Resodyn, to create a non-aggregated dispersion of electrochemically active nanoparticles in a tough, adherent proprietary thermoplastic matrix. The newly discovered composite coating material may be applied either the factory or in the field to steel structures by using a novel polymer thermal spray system developed by Resodyn Corporation. These thermoplastic coatings may also be field-repaired. In this project, the synthesis will be optimized to yield high surface area electrochemically active nanoparticles dispersed in the thermoplastic matrix. The process will be scaled up to produce useful quantities of the coating material with varying thermoplastic compositions, several different concentrations of nanoparticles, and two forms of nanoparticles. These coatings will then be applied to steel substrates, and characterized for mechanical, barrier, and active electrochemical properties. Test coupons and rebar will be exposed to severe corrosion conditions to validate the laboratory results. Corrosion is a $300 billion per year problem. Steel corrosion is of
particular concern in bridges and other infrastructure, both internally (rebar in reinforced concrete) and externally (steel structures); direct cost of bridge corrosion alone is between $6-10 billion annually. The most effective anticorrosion treatments, such as chromates and solvent-borne coatings, carry severe environmental hazards. Barrier coatings such as epoxy can provide a degree of protection, but are difficult-to-impossible to field-apply, can be damaged in shipping and handling, and generally need a topcoat for any outdoor exposure. This coating material would be solvent free, instant curing, single part, no pot life or shelf life issues, non-metallic, and simple to use in both factory and in situ applications. Field repair of scratches and gouges would be capable of being done by a simple melting process. The coating will also change color in areas where corrosion is incipient, giving an early warning that a repair will be necessary before any actual corrosion damage can occur. The coating will enable an environmentally friendly method of significantly extending the life of steel infrastructure at a comparable cost to current anticorrosion treatments, which represents a potential $1.8 billion market."
Hypoxia-Perfusion Bioreactor for Stem Cell Applications,2R44HL072655-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,2,750011.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,,,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. Mcadams,,4064975252,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop and demonstrate a prototype Hypoxia Perfusion Bioreactor (HPB). In order to utilize recent discoveries that low oxygen levels are favorable to stem ce
ll expansion, Resodyn Corporation has developed the HPB, which is designed to provide controlled delivery of both oxygen and fresh medium to stem cell cultures. Studying and controlling the physical parameters are essential in order to bring reproducible,
economically feasible therapies to the clinic. One goal of this Phase II proposal is to evaluate and demonstrate the utility and commercial feasibility of Resodyn Corporation's Hypoxia Perfusion Bioreactor (HPB) for wide range of hematopoietic cell expansi
on applications. A second goal is to develop a model protocol that will demonstrate the HPB's ability to expand hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) without the requirement for previous selection (CD34+ or AC133+) for primitive stem cell populations. This capab
ility would represent a significant advance in reducing the cost and complexity of therapeutic and research efforts in the stem cell field. While the primary feasibility of the HPB will be tested primarily with hematopoietic cell populations, the benefits
of this device (controlled hypoxia/oxygen levels, high cell densities, reduced labor, lower contamination risk) would have extended utility to other types of stem and progenitor cells (mesenchymal, adipose, neural, etc.), as well as for use in general mamm
alian cell culture. Such applications include hybridoma culture for monoclonal antibody (MAb) production and Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell culture for production of recombinant proteins. The HPB system has significant long-term commercial potential both
in the laboratory as a tool to facilitate development of stem cells protocols, and in the clinic as a component of both hematopoietic transplantation and other pre-emerging stem cell therapies of the neural, hematopoietic, and mesenchymal lineages. PUBLIC
HEALTH RELEVANCE: This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop and demonstrate a Hypoxia Perfusion Bioreactor (HPB). The HPB is a single-use bioreactor designed specifically for stem cell and other primary cell cultures and can sub
stantially reduce labor costs and reduce contamination risks associated with the scale-up of cellular therapies. The HPB will reduce costs and ease the translation of stem cell therapies from the research lab to the clinic."
Low Cost Optrodes for Chemical Sensor Development of Tethered PET-Fluorophores,DE-FG02-09ER85411,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2009,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,Mr.,4064975252,LCFarrar@resodyn.com,Manfred Biermann,Mr.,4064975264,manfred.biermann@resodyn.com,"Besides temperature, pH measurement is one of the most common controls used in the processing of aqueous media within various industries. One example is in chemical processing where titration is often used to drive the pH to a certain level, in order to initiate, maintain, optimize, or terminate reactions. Another instance involves the monitoring of cell growth bioreactors, where microbial and especially mammalian cell cultures demand that the pH be maintained within a very narrow range. However, existing pH-sensing systems have a number of limitations: hazards to sample volumes, generation of unreliable data, a small sensitivity range, photo bleaching, and hysteresis. The Phase I project will synthesize a series of fluorophores in which the pH sensitivity is not contained within the fluorophore itself (as with conventional fluorescent dyes) but rather in a receptor that reports changes in pH by means of Photo-Induced Electron Transfer (PET). Phase II will design and develop a pH-sensitive optrode that incorporates the PET fluorophore ensemble of Phase I. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Given the increasing energy and environmental costs, the new pH sensing technology should enable manufacturers to improve efficiency and thereby keep the expense of goods in a competitive range."
An Advanced Vibrothermography Approach for Wind Turbine Applications,DE-FG02-09ER85414,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2009,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,Mr.,4064975252,LCFarrar@resodyn.com,Peter Lucon,Mr.,4064975212,plucon@resodyn.com,"The reliability of wind turbine systems is greatly impacted by hidden defects. Therefore, an improved method of inspection is sought for the manufactured composite materials used in these systems. In addition, an inspection method is also needed in the field, to assure quality during and after installation. This project will develop a reliable, portable, instrumentation system that can be utilized during the manufacture of wind turbine composite members, at the time of installation, and throughout the lifetime of wind turbine systems. The system will be based on an advanced vibrothermography technique that will detect and characterize manufacturing flaws, along with the damage done to turbine blades and supporting structures thought their service life. Algorithms will be derived to distinguish and determine the types of manufacturing defects, shipping damage, and fatigue related failure flaw types. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee:: The inspection technology should increase the reliability of wind turbine systems, thereby decreasing yearly operation and maintenance costs, which are approximately 30% of the total cost of a wind turbine. An additional benefit is that the final commercial system will include software algorithms for ┐smart┐ identification of flaws; therefore, interpretation of the results would not require a high level of skill."
Resonant Acoustic Mixing of Solid Rocket Motor Propellant to Minimize Property Variations,FA8650-09-M-2027,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2009,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"Current mixing and casting procedures result in unwanted gradients in solid rocket motor (SRM) material properties with subsequent ballistic property variations. Resodyn Corporations-Y ResonantAcoustic? mixing (RAM) technology is poised to revolutionize the design, development and production of SRM-Ys. RAM technology has the unique capability of rapidly mixing high solids propellant without using the high levels of shear that contribute to non-uniform material properties of the SRM-Ys that are currently produced. Additionally a method to eliminate knit lines and reduces the number steps needed to fabricate an SRM is proposed. This proposal demonstrates the effectiveness of using RAM to mix composite propellants, both inert and Class 1.3, at both laboratory scale and engineered demonstration motor scale, and will develop a predictive model of mix effectiveness when using the RAM technology. BENEFITS: RAM technologies will have significant impact at all levels of the SRM industry from laboratory development work, to engineering prototype motors, and into qualified production programs. This technology dramatically reduces production cycle times and reduces the significance of propellant formulation uncured viscosity that currently dominates mixing procedures. When the RAM technology is integrated into all levels of the SRM industry, the inherent benefits of using RAM technology will allow for improvements in ballistic performance, insensitive munitions/safety, long term aging and reduced production costs."
Development of a Resonant Acoustic Biological Shaker,2R44GM074287-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,2,750000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,,,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. Mcadams,,4064975252,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop and demonstrate a commercial prototype of a ResonantAcoustic(R) Biological Shaker (RBS). ResonantAcoustics(R) is a low-frequency acoustic mixing techn
ology that is non-invasive and highly effective for mixing and gas transfer. The RBS will be developed as a higher- performing alternative to conventional orbital shakers that will allow the use of multiple agitation speeds simultaneously. Conventional bio
logical orbital shakers have substantial drawbacks that include low oxygen transfer capability and are limited to one agitation speed at a time. Acoustic agitation brings increased levels of micro mixing that translate to increases in product expression fr
om bacteria and fungi. The RBS will also allow new levels of control over the morphological profile of fungal cultures, which is of major scientific interest and industrially relevance. During the course of project, a new type of closure will be designed i
n order to take full advantage of the enhanced acoustic mixing. Custom single-use flask designs optimized for the RBS will be developed. Advanced operational strategies (agitation intensity, volume level, real-time oxygen monitoring) will be explored to pr
ovide guidance on the best conditions at which to operate different types of microbial cultures. Performance of the RBS will be compared to orbital shakers for bacterial, fungal, and yeast cell cultures. Through its ability to support dramatically increase
d levels of biomass and operate at multiple settings simultaneously, the RBS will significantly expand both the pace and productivity of work in microbiological research. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will
develop and demonstrate a commercial prototype of a ResonantAcoustic(R) Biological Shaker (RBS). ResonantAcoustics(R) is an acoustic mixing technology that greatly enhances the growth of bacteria and other important microorganisms in biological laboratori
es when compared to the current use of rotating shaking machines. The availability of a better- performing biological laboratory shaker will substantial increase the rate at which new pharmaceutical drugs can be developed and produced."
New antibiotics targeting fatty acid biosynthesis,1R43AI077245-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,1,171569.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,Dana E. Warren,,,dana.e.warren@mail.promiliad.com,Nigel Priestley,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Antibiotic resistant pathogens, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, are a significant public health problem which is compounded by the slow rate of development of new antibiotics. Investigators at Merck
Research Laboratories recently reported on the isolation and activity of two new natural products, platensimycin and platencin. These were an exciting results as the compounds acts in a novel manner: they are inhibitors of key steps (FabH and FabF) in fat
ty acid biosynthesis. We have an excellent opportunity to leverage our experience in synthetic chemistry, bioassay and crystallography to generate a select panel of structurally much simpler platensimycin/platencin analogs to define the key pharmacophore a
nd improve activity and spectrum of activity. The development of dual FabH/F inhibitors is a significant goal as antibiotics that target two steps in a biosynthesis pathway are less likely to be compromised by emerging resistance. In this Phase I STTR feas
ibility study we will determine if structurally simplified platensimycin/platencin analogs have promise through: Aim 1: Leveraging the synthetic experience of the Wright group at The University of Connecticut we will generate a select array of platensimyci
n/platencin analogs using the cyclocondensation of furan and perhalocyclopropene derivatives as the key synthetic transformation. Aim 2: Promiliad Biopharma will conduct extensive bioassay of the new derivatives against Gram positive bacteria, Gram negativ
e bacteria, fungi and Human cell lines to determine MIC and IC50 values for growth inhibition. In vitro inhibition data for the new compounds against the target proteins FabF/H will be obtained. We will also measure the frequency of resistance in S. aureus
. Aim 3: Leveraging the X-ray crystallographic expertise of the Anderson group at The University of Connecticut, active platensimycin/platencin analogs will be co-crystallized with both FabF and FabH to obtain high resolution structural information which w
ill drive further medicinal chemistry efforts. The synthetic, biological and structural data forthcoming will allow us to determine if our approach has merit and will guide us in further optimization and development of platensimycin/platencin analogs (Phas
e II). PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Antibiotic resistance among common bacterial pathogens is a serious public health problem because it compromises our ability to treat many infectious diseases. The resistance problem has been compounded by the lack o
f discovery of new antibiotics, particularly those that act in novel ways. Such new compounds are critically needed as resistance to older antibiotics, and even their newer counterparts, is growing. The goal of our work is to develop a new set of antibacte
rial compounds, platensimycin/platencin derivatives, as agents that are active against bacterial pathogens. In this work we will make use of synthetic chemistry, bioassay and protein crystallography to improve on the natural product antibiotics platensimyc
in and platencin. At the end of this project we will know if structurally simpler platensimycin analogs can be developed into useful drugs."
The identification of novel negative allosteric modulators of the nicotinic recep,1R41DA026245-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2009,1,190807.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,Dana E. Warren,,,dana.e.warren@mail.promiliad.com,Dennis B. Mckay,,6142923771,MCKAY.2@OSU.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The goal of this Phase I STTR project is to identify novel negative allosteric modulators of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This project seeks to partner the drug discovery technology of the Promiliad Biopharma w
ith the expertise of Professor Dennis McKay to identify novel and subtype selective negative allosteric modulators of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. We believe that such compounds could provide a significant improvement in available therapies for sm
oking addiction. Work supported with this grant will examine the Promiliad Biopharma compound database to identify small molecules that fit a previously identifed nicotinic acetylcholine receptor pharmacophore. Compounds that fit the pharmacophore will be
examined in a variety of pharmacological assays to identify negative allosteric modulators of three subtypes of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. In addition to the in silico screening of the Promiliad compound library, Promiliad Biopharma will prepare
libraries of previously identified negative allosteric modulators of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. These libraries will make use of Promiliad's drug discovery technology in order to prepare a diverse and novel set of analogues. In addition to iden
tifying a new selective negative allosteric modulator of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, this project will also allow Promilad to test the hypothesis that the Promiliad drug discovery technology can be used for the idenfication of a variety of therap
eutic agents. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The goal of this Phase I STTR project is to identify novel negative allosteric modulators of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This project seeks to partner the drug discovery technology of the Promiliad Biopharma
with the expertise of Professor Dennis McKay to identify novel and subtype selective negative allosteric modulators of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. We believe that such compounds could provide a significant improvement in available therapies for
smoking addiction."
Innovative Photonic Time Delay Units for Radar Applications,HQ0006-09-C-7082,DOD,MDA,STTR,2009,1,99910.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian Merkel,President / CEO,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Kristian Merkel,President / CEO,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"We aim to design and demonstrate an innovative photonic true time delay solution which alleviates the fundamental problem of cascaded optical switches, and additionally offers several significant benefits. The device uses wideband spatial-spectral (S2) holographic optical memory materials to store and access several broadband time delay gratings. Broadband optical chirps are used to create these time delay gratings, and the control mechanism is an RF tone, not an optical switch. Each filter can extend over GHz of bandwidth, and can be individually programmed. Multi-casting is possible with multiple delays stored as spectral gratings. Hundreds of filters can be stored in a single small volume of S2 material (human hair sized). The delay gratings are probed by radar signal modulated onto an optical laser carrier, and the S2 material creates a true-time delayed replicas of the signal, which is then photodectected at the array element. Delays of interest are accessed by fast optical frequency switching. One S2 crystal spot per array element is needed, and many spots can be illuminated in one sugar cube sized S2 crystal, e.g., 32x32 elements."
Shipboard Wideband Collection Systems Using an S2-material based Receiver,N66001-09-C-1010,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2009,2,599760.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian Merkel,President & CEO,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Kristian Merkel,President & CEO,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,"The objectives of the base project are three-fold: 1) An existing prototype hardware spectrum analyzer receiver system will be enhanced, tested in house, and ruggedized to enable it to be field tested at a federal test site (in the option). Work will focus on dynamic range improvements, continuous time coverage, and aims for innovation with multi-stage processing approaches to be analyzed and demonstrated. 2) A new crystal mount will be designed, engineered, and tested such that it can mounted in a closed-cycle cryostat including necessary applied magnetic fields, and with S2 Corporation's proprietary vibration-isolation mounting, such that the system can achieve continuous operation. 3) The multi-function nature of S2 systems will be analyzed and documented with the goal of utilizing RF apertures for applications of electronic warfare, sensing and communications, in the context of a disruptive approach aimed to dominate the electro-magnetic spectrum for future designs in shipboard applications. In the option, the prototype hardware as assembly would be used for an external testing effort, and results documented."
Photonics-enabled Radio-Frequency Arbitrary Waveform Generation,W911NF-10-C-0015,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2009,1,66424.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian Merkel,President / CEO,4069220334,merkel@s2corpration.com,Peter Sellin,PI / Sr. Photonics Engineer,4069220334,sellin@s2corporation.com,"We propose to analyze and design prototype hardware, and demonstrate basic capabilities in a Phase I effort, based on coherent accumulation and interference of spectrally shaped waveforms to achieve wideband RF arbitrary waveform generation. The combined specifications include bandwidths of 10-40 GHz, time bandwidth products >>50 given the bandwidth and long time apertures with complete control of phase and amplitude of the signals, with bipolar waveform generation. The technology enables agile waveform generation for communications, sensor, radar and surveillance applications."
High-Resolution Wide-Bandwidth Optical Arbitrary Waveform Generation Over Extended Time Apertures,W31P4Q-09-C-0184,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2009,1,98673.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian Merkel,President,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Peter Sellin,Research Scientist,4069220334,sellin@s2corporation.com,"We propose to design a prototype device based on coherent accumulation and interference of spectrally shaped waveforms to achieve wideband optical arbitrary waveform generation with time apertures of 50 us, complete control of phase and amplitude, bandwidths of 100 GHz up to 1 THz, and a spectral resolution of 50 kHz. This technology enables wideband agile waveform generation for communications, sensor, and surveillance applications."
OBSERVER : Ocular-Based Screening Evaluation and Real-time Verification Examination Remotely,HSHQDC-09-C-00065,DHS,DHS,SBIR,2009,2,874313.00,Veridical Research and Design Corporation,211 W. Main - Lower Level,PO Box 6503,Bozeman,MT,59771-6503,No,No,No,Frank M. Marchak,,(406) 522-9045,fmarchak@vradc.com,Frank M. Marchak,President,(406) 522-9045,fmarchak@vradc.com,"Veridical Research and Design Corporation proposes to deliver a prototype of the OBSERVER (Ocular-Based Screening Evaluation and Real-time Verification Examination Remotely) Malintent Detection system capable of non-intrusively assessing an individual's intent-to-deceive using ocular-based measures. Work under Phase II will develop a prototype application that supports (a) the extension of the basic OBSERVE model developed under Phase I to determine the effects of including visual stimuli during questioning, (b) the development and validation of the OBSERVER prototype using live interrogators, and (c) the extension of the prototype to examine the contribution of measurements of participant visual attention to items in the examination environment. The resulting system will function in a stand-alone configuration and will also be capable of integration as a component of a multiple sensor suite. The ability to automate aspects of the screening process is crucial given the large number of individuals that must be evaluated. In addition to supporting DHS's goals of developing new physiological and behavioral sensor technologies for homeland security operations that determine malintent, OBSERVER will be of immediate utility for screening individuals in situations where detection of potential malicious intent is required in government, military and civilian sectors."
Cost-Effective Wind Turbine for Electricity Self Sufficiency on Small and Mid-Size Farms,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2009,1,80000.00,"WIND INNOVATIONS, LLC",502 S 6TH AVE,,Bozeman,MT,59715-4564,No,No,No,Will Swearingen,Vice President,4066401560,wds@montana.edu,David Morris,President and Chief Technology Officer,5035391745,dcmorris@ltgspeed.com,"There is potential for a major expansion of windpower production on small and mid-size farms in the United States. Most of the nation?s wind resources are located on farm and ranch land. However, US sales of small (less than 100kW) wind turbines are still relatively limited, amounting to fewer than 7,000 units in 2006. The major reason is the unacceptably high system cost and long payback period of existing commercial wind turbines. Other reasons include public objections to the visual appearance and noise of conventional wind turbines, and their perceived lethality to birds and bats. The proposed Wind Fin technology has been designed to overcome all of these major barriers to market acceptance of small wind systems. Previous research indicates that the Wind Fin will reduce the cost of small wind systems (3kW and larger) by approximately half. In addition, this past research demonstrates that the Wind Fin?s overall power generation is significantly larger than the power generation of conventional wind turbines at lower wind speeds of 5 to 15 mph. This lower wind-speed capability will enable the Wind Fin technology to open up entirely new rural areas to windpower production. In addition, the Wind Fin will provide a faster return on investment than other small wind turbines, because it will be generating electricity when conventional wind turbines either are not operating or are producing only minimal power. This project is expected to result in a reliable, robust wind-energy system that will generate electricity at a cost of approximately 3 cents per kilowatt hour. This is roughly a fourth of the current national residential retail price. Harnessing wind energy cost-effectively will play a major role in increasing the profitability and economic viability of small and mid-size farms, many of which are struggling because of high energy costs. The Wind Fin will enable energy production that is highly distributed throughout rural America, contributing significantly to the nation?s energy security and fostering stability in the national energy grid."
Electronic Procedures for Medical Operations,NNX09CA96C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2009,2,595347.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur Molin,Program Manager,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,Mary Beth Hudson,Principal Investigator,2814801453,mhuson@ska-corp.com,"Electronic procedures are currently being used to document the steps in performing medical operations for the Space Shuttle and/or the International Space Station (ISS). Capturing the data electronically makes is easier to manage, modify and query the contents of the procedures. For the ISS, NASA is currently transitioning to electronic procedures based on the eXtensible Markup Language (XML) standard. Modeling procedures electronically using XML has a number of benefits. Procedures can be quickly and effectively searched to determine which procedures are affected by software and hardware changes. Procedures are more easily shared by other computer-based systems. And procedure execution aids become possible, such as real time data capture and automatic book marking of the current procedure step. Such procedure models will be an important component of an integrated Medical Decision Support needed for future exploration missions. The primary purpose of this project is to continue to research and develop a Procedure Representation Language (PRL) and support tools that will benefit the creation, maintenance, and use of the medical procedures, and to develop them in such a way that new advances can be easily inserted, eventually leading to the Medical Decision Support system."
Procedure Integrated Development Environment (PRIDE),NNX09CA18C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2009,2,597295.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur Molin,Business Official,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,"NASA captures and distributes operational knowledge in the form of procedures. These procedures are created and accessed by a range of people performing many different jobs. These people have different needs for procedure data and different ways of interacting with procedures. We propose an Procedure Integrated Development Environment which will present different editing modes and different views depending on the users and tasks, but will use a consistent data representation for all users. We propose to connect the editing environment to other tools and systems that are useful to procedure development, including recon databases and verification tools. We propose to build this environment on the basis of an existing prototype, PRIDE, which was developed for the Engineering Directorate of Johnson Space Center."
Medical Operations Decision Support System,NNX09CE26P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2009,1,94141.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur Molin,Business Official,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,"Determining the probability of specific medical events on a given space mission is difficult. Yet, it is important to have reasonable estimates of these probabilities in order to make informed decisions about managing the associated risks. NASA's mission is and always will be to push the envelope, to go where no historical record exists to give guidance. Consequently, it is necessary to consider additional sources of information, like expert opinion, analog studies, and controlled studies. To combine this information in a principled way, each source should be documented and should be characterized according to its ""level of evidence."" NASA's researchers need the capability to gather information about each possible event, calculate the probability, update the calculations as new information is discovered, and support informed decisions about risks and risk mitigation strategies.
S&K Aerospace (SKA) proposes an innovative Web-based system to collect relevant evidence for medical events and facilitate the assignment of its ""level of evidence"", and combine evidence from multiple sources so that principled decisions can be reached concerning the probability of those events. We intend to provide users with the ability to adjust the weighted combinations of multiple sources in order to refine the combined estimates, based on the expert opinion of the user of the software system. This system, which we call the Medical Event Decision Support System, or MEDSS, will allow researchers to create a database of possible medical events that require analysis. For each event, information and references can be added; this information can take any form. In addition, we will build an inference engine that can calculate the probability of the event occurring, based on the information that is available. Each event will have a range of hypothetical mitigation strategies, along with the current best recommendation."
High Efficiency Single Photon Up-Conversion in Waveguides and Pump Wavelength Longer than the Signal Wavelength,SB1341-08-SE-0675,DOC,NIST,SBIR,2008,1,89974.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Mark Munro,,4065220388,munro@advr-inc.com,This NIST Phase 1 SBIR effort will demonstrate the feasibility of low noise single photon up conversion using KTiOPO4 (KTP) or LiNbO3 (LN) or Stoichiometric LiTaO3 (SLT) periodically poled waveguides and an 1800nm pump for a high efficiency single photon detector. The key innovation is using low noise periodically poled waveguides with a long wavelength (1800nm) pump leading to higher efficiency single photon detectors when used with Silicon-based avalanche single photon detectors (Si-APD). Use of waveguide Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) for 1535nm to 828.5nm up-conversion coupled with inexpensive and very efficient SI-APD technology is expected to significantly increase single photon detection efficiency while maintaining long fiber optic transmission distance for quantum communication networks and quantum-key-distribution (QKD) systems.
Waveguide Phase Modulator for Integrated Planar Lightwave Circuits in KTP,NNL08AA15C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,2,599952.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Vice President,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,Principal Investigator,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase II effort proposes the development and integration of a Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) into an all fiber-based seed laser system used in high spectral resolution aerosol and cloud lidar applications. The PLC integrates a frequency doubling element, a waveguide splitter, and phase modulator into a monolithic, waveguide-based device. This technology is important for lidar systems requiring high frequency stability and accuracy. The proposed device, with the proper IR input, will generate the required visible radiation, spectrally formatted for the HSRL seed laser stabilization scheme. The PLC concept advances NASA's lidar systems due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, thus enabling use on small aircraft and satellites. The key objective in this SBIR Phase II proposal is to develop and incorporate the PLC into a deployable, all fiber-based seed laser system for NASA-LaRC's HSRL cloud and aerosol measurements."
"Highly Efficient, Compact, Wavelength Converters for Pulsed and CW Laser Sources Used in Lidar-Based Remote Sensing and Ranging Systems",NNX08CA30C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,2,599946.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Business Official,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Christopher Kaleva,Principal Investigator,4065220388,kaleva@advr-inc.com,"AdvR, Inc. proposes the development of a highly efficient, fiber pigtailed, waveguide-based UV frequency converter module. This UV module will be an important element in future NASA sponsored Doppler lidar and High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) aerosol missions. The key innovation is the use of dual-element periodically poled waveguides embedded in a nonlinear optical substrate. This innovation results in a vast improvement in the measurement capabilities of lidar systems by enabling the use of a single stabilized laser to both operate a high power transmitter and generate low power frequency tripled light for synchronous calibration and frequency locking of the Fabry Perot filter on the lidar receiver. To be used in a space-based system, the UV module must be rugged and must perform optimally in a radiation environment over the mission lifetime. To achieve this goal, the proposed dual-element structure will be packaged in a compact, robust fiber-pigtailed package which will readily lend itself to future space qualification for mechanical stability of the package and radiation damage resistance of the non-linear optical material."
Tools and Materials for Hands-On Climate and Weather Science Education,,ED,ED,SBIR,2008,1,99854.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,"The majority of students and educators would probably agree that students are better able to grasp scientific concepts from the use of hands-on activities and other inquiry-based educational practices than from typical lecture problem solving methods. Anasphere, Inc is working to make
inquiry based tools and materials for weather and climate education more readily available for students and educators and given current global climate change issues the importance of educating students in these areas is of vital national and global importance. The AnaSonde, Anaspheres privately developed radiosonde, is the perfect teaching tool with which students can gain handson experience when learning about weather and climate science; however, its current user pool is very
limited due to the requirement that users have an amateur radio license."
Environmental Sensor for Autonomous UAVS,W911W6-08-C-0048,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2008,2,729968.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Improved observations of the battlespace are of key and growing importance in today's combat environment. UAVs are making key contributions in this area, and sensor improvements are a key part of increasing UAV capabilities. However, all sensors are subject to degradation under detrimental environmental conditions. Adding a sensor system to UAVs that enables the real-time identification and assessment of such conditions will aid in the most effective use of UAVs and their onboard sensors as well as enable more accurate evaluation of the sensor data being returned. In Phase I, Anasphere built and tested two proof-of-concept UAV Environmental Sensor Systems optimized for use on small UAVs. These systems measure meteorological variables, plus precipitation rate and type, ambient light, and visibility. Power consumption is 400 milliwatts maximum, and the footprint is the same size as a credit card. Weight of the systems is approximately 3 ounces. On-board data processing allows other value-added parameters of significance to be computed and reported. In Phase II, these systems will be further developed and enhanced with wind measurement capabilities. Further prototypes will be iteratively developed, and the project will culminate in delivery and demonstration of production-form systems to the Army."
Miniature Carbon Dioxide Sensor for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems,NNX08CA31C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,2,599665.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Phase 1 has seen the development of a revolutionary new type of sensor for making carbon dioxide (CO2) measurements from small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and other platforms such as sounding balloons. The chemistry behind the new sensor has been proven, example sensors were fabricated, and the technique has shown its immunity to many interferences (notably humidity and temperature) which affect other carbon dioxide measurement technologies.
Phase 2 will involve optimizing the new sensor in terms of sensitivity and manufacturability. Several field tests will be conducted with the new sensor, including baseline atmospheric CO2 measurements as well as CO2 flux measurements. Four sensors of the final design developed in Phase 2 will be delivered to NASA for use on small UAS platforms.
Anticipated results include the completed development of a revolutionary new type of CO2 sensor for atmospheric research and its demonstration in the field prior to the conclusion of Phase 2. A medical variant is expected to quickly result in part from this work as well. It is also foreseen that several sensors for other gases may be developed based on this all-new measurement technology."
STTR Phase I: Compact Aberration Compensated Focus and Scan Control for Biomedical Sensors,0810778,NSF,NSF,STTR,2008,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Randy R. Reibel,PhD,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy R. Reibel,PhD,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project will demonstrate the technical and commercial feasibility of an innovative aberration compensated focus control device for a revolutionary improvement in medical imaging. Currently, a variety of medical conditions are diagnosed and treated through in vitro imaging of suspicious tissues, requiring invasive, time-consuming biopsies. Several in vivo medical imaging technologies have been developed and shown to be efficacious for disease diagnosis and treatment (confocal, OCT, etc.). These commercial systems, however, remain too large for imaging of most native biological systems. This is due to the size of the optical assemblies, the manner in which they are raster scanned to create images, and inherent optical aberrations induced during scanning. This project will solve these problems by creating a compact, miniaturized aberration free focus control/scanning device by combining two critical innovations: extremely small, low cost, large stroke, micro-electro-mechanical deformable mirrors for focus control and compensation of spherical aberration and a miniaturized wavefront sensor to detect and control aberrations induced by the deformable mirror. After providing critical proof-of-concept demonstrations, the team will create a prototype device design and determine its technical feasibility based upon its expected performance and projected size, weight and power consumption. The potential commercial payoff for this miniaturized aberration compensated focus control/raster scanning device is very large. Applications encompass not only biomedical
imaging but extend to other markets including digital cameras and cell phone cameras. Conservative market estimates suggest that within the next three years, sales of this device could provide gross annual revenues greater than $27M. The team will consult with industry experts, engage potential customers for the medical imaging market, and identify market insertion points for the device. The team will also contact major cell phone and digital camera manufacturers. Based upon the response from these potential customers, the examination of the competitive landscape, and the projected time to market, the team will determine the device's commercial feasibility."
Non-Mechanical High Resolution LADAR Based Around A Frequency Swept Optical Source,N68335-08-C-0445,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2008,1,79990.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,President and CEO,4065852774,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Randy Reibel,Vice President and COO,4069201339,reibel@bridgerphotonics.com,"Bridger Photonics (BP) and collaborative partner Montana State University (MSU) propose to develop a completely novel, non-mechanical scanning mechanism that will enable a compact, high-resolution, imaging LADAR system for enhanced navigation aid during helicopter brownouts. Such systems are becoming prominent in today's modernized military especially as the cost in lives and dollars has come to the Navy's attention. LADAR imaging is needed for increased functionality including enhanced situational awareness, obstacle detection and avoidance during landing. Due to the demanding payload requirements, any enabling technology must be sufficiently rugged, compact and lightweight. BP's proposed LADAR system will be capable of rapid volumetric scans with resolution up to 1 cm3 over a range of 30 m and a 30degrees x 60degrees field-of-view. The system will utilize an ultra-compact laser source, have no moving parts, and take advantage of a unique heterodyne detection technique to reduce receiver electronic bandwidths and processing requirements making the system robust, compact and affordable. The proposed system is based on BP's recent innovations in controlling frequency-swept optical laser sources and utilizing these sources to provide a unique non-mechanically scanned, wavelength multiplexed imaging system."
STTR Phase I: Spectrally Diverse Ultrafast Lasers,0740705,NSF,NSF,STTR,2008,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Peter A. Roos,PhD,3038181653,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,Peter A. Roos,PhD,3038181653,roos@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I research project addresses the need for high-power ultrafast lasers from the visible to the mid-wave infrared spectral regions. This research will develop a highly innovative ultrafast laser system emitting sub-picosecond pulses that is based on unexplored coupling between stimulated Raman scattering, stimulated Brillouin scattering, and four-wave mixing. Because none of these processes requires resonance with a single-photon transition, the technique will lead to ultrashort pulse generation at virtually any wavelength. Furthermore, the wavelength flexibility enables pumping with mature, extremely high power diode and fiber laser sources. Unique features of the gain medium will enable scaling of this system to the kilowatt average power level. There is commercial potential for a high-power ultrafast laser system with such spectral accessibility. For instance, this source can be used to avoid or target atmospheric and/or material absorptions in the mid-wave infrared. It could therefore lead for example to greatly improved free-space ground-to-satellite communications systems, efficient laser machining /welding, active hyperspectral imaging, and ultrafast materials research."
SBIR Phase II: (IT-B5) Feasibility to run novel voice interface on a low-power microcontroller,0822743,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2008,2,500000.00,"CameronSound, LLC",2004 Centennial Dr.,,Great Falls,MT,59404 3685,No,No,No,Seth Cameron,PhD,8014740134,seth@cameronsound.com,Seth Cameron,PhD,8014740134,seth@cameronsound.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II research project will implement a miniature information management system that is suitable to the access requirements for visually impaired users. Current information technologies for the visually impaired are slow and difficult to operate while holding a white cane or guide dog. Visually impaired people will benefit greatly from a hands-free/eyes-free information system that is much faster to operate and easier to access. The project will develop a voice-operated personal digital assistant (PDA), called Vivian, which performs 10 times faster than Braille PDAs. The outcome of the Phase I study demonstrated the feasibility of real-time speech processing algorithms on integrated microcontrollers without hardware floating-point arithmetic. The outcome of this Phase II project is anticipated to result in a wearable device similar to a state of the art media player with 10X faster processing and 10X smaller in size. With more than 160 million visually impaired people worldwide, 10 million in the US alone, the proposed research is a critical step towards a device that will address their mobile information management needs significantly better than current alternatives. Moreover, this device should impact mobile information management for sighted people. The results of usability trials with sighted users speaking multiple languages conducted during the Phase I project, indicate that the outcomes of a powerful and fast alternative
human computer interface to graphical user interfaces for sighted and visually impaired users. Additionally, this voice technology is suitable for integration into mobile appliances such as mobile phones for which over 300 million were sold in 2007."
A Process to Produce High-Purity Encapsulated Particulates in Large Quantities,W911QX-08-C-0072,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2008,2,729990.00,"FEDERAL TECHNOLOGY GROUP, INC.",Enterprise Professional Center,235 S. Enterprise Blvd,Bozeman,MT,59718 6062,No,No,No,Todd G. Johnson,Executive Director,4065862997,toddjohnson@fedtechgroup.com,Pay Yih,Technical Director,2166881556,payyih@fedtechgroup.com,"In Phase I of this project, FTG researchers showed that complete and uniform coatings of metal-coated particulates provide a mechanism for improving particle distribution, enhancing mechanical properties of fabricated components, and significantly improving the performance of reactive materials. This permits the creation of fully dense and high-quality MMCs for the production of bulk materials/coatings/components with specific engineered properties. These can significantly increase the lethality of various weapons systems, such as bullets, rockets, shape charges and mortars. We have achieved excellent results in creating new and highly reactive intermetallic and thermic materials composed of mixtures of finely divided particles of the reaction partners. Metallic reaction partners of small metal-coated particles maximize effective surface area and are intimately coated for good contact. These uniform coatings provide for even distribution through the bulk reactive material, enabling fast and complete reactions. Ni-Al and Cu-W composites exhibit high-bond strengths, and uniform homogeneity is achieved without clustering. Resulting components show dramatically improved structural strengths, and have 100% consolidation equal to theoretical properties with little to no apparent porosity or inherent material defects. To effectively compete against nanoparticles, the focus of Phase II will be to introduce nanomaterials by coating nanostructured materials made up of nanograins."
"SBIR Phase II: FireScape: A Platform for On-Demand, Browser-Based Incident Command",0750514,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2008,2,491180.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Robert Crabtree,PhD,4055569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,Robert Crabtree,PhD,4055569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II aims to prove the feasibility of creating a web-based mapping and visualization application for end-users in wildland fire management communities as an extension to the results of the Phase I work. By partnering with strategic vendors, the project will expand our current application to offer not only advanced remote-sensing data products and customized reports, but on-site, real-time weather data, GPS tracking, and full data transfer and communications networks (including audio and video). The project aims to ultimately provide end-users access to a complete team of expert analysts and engineers to gather, merge, and analyze fire-related data products through satellite communications networking. Our experts will then consolidate and simplify all the available data into custom, real-time data reports with geospatial context and delivery it to end-users to expedite high-level decision making, which can save valuable assets and lives. The platform will be amenable to the networking, visualization and analysis of a great number of issues in not only the natural resources realm, but also homeland security, disaster relief, global monitoring, and hazard mitigation. The ability to quickly and efficiently collect, analyze, and share geospatial data (in particular, time-sensitive environmental data) across the World Wide Web is the cornerstone value proposition for this product. These combined abilities provide a critical and as-yet-unavailable
tool for the fire management community. The project has both economic and humanistic benefits in that confinement strategies decided-on and applied during the early stages of fires can significantly reduce the cost of fire suppression by several millions of dollars. This increased information will also allow decisions to be made that keep firefighters as safe as possible. Additionally the project will offer advanced data products in formats designed specifically to address the aspects that influence these decisions. The combination of the hub solution and web browser interface as a flexible architecture, is based on open standards and therefore is agile, dynamically configurable, and interoperable holding significant value for applications such as natural disasters, pandemics, or homeland security. The overlay and visualization of that data will provide analyses of critical importance for decision and policy makers, as well as regular citizens, all seeking the best geospatial information possible and in a form they can use."
An Automated Tool for Deriving FARSITE Canopy Fuel Parameters from Airborne LiDAR Data,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2008,2,349846.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Karen McIntosh,Senior Program Director,4065569880,mcintosh@hyperspectives.net,Robert L. Crabtree,President,4065569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,"The USDA is the managing agency for 192.5 million acres, much of which is national forest. A major threat to national forests is uncontrolled wildland fires. These fires are a serious threat to goods and services provided by national forests, including natural resources (timber), forage for livestock and wildlife, outdoor recreation, and a vector to sequester carbon. Healthy forests provide habitats for various plant and animal species and protect soil quality, prevent soil erosion, and improve water quality. This project will allow the USDA to better manage forest ecosystems through innovations in technology. It will allow the USDA and other federal and commercial agencies to calculate forest biomass and potential fuels, as well as provide reproducible inputs into the federally-mandated FARSITE fire software application. The end result will produce a toolkit in which 80% of our processing methodology is automated and 20% is customizable. Customization services will be sold to end-users in the fire management, timber, and insurance industries in conjunction with our web-based visualization application FIRESCAPET. Our browser-based mapping application fuses and displays data from real-time sensor networks at active fires with numerous remote-sensing imagery and weather forecast products. The services developed under this project will directly fill a significant deficiency in the firefighting communityřřřř-the lack of accurate, relevant, and accessible data for ingestion into fire spread models."
Buhl Ethanol Project: Co-producing Ethanol and Barley Protein Using Local Resources,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2008,2,349860.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford Bradley,Partner,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford Bradley,null,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"The phase II project combines fuel ethanol production with manufacturing of a protein concentrate to create a new industry in a rural south Idaho community. In phase 1 research, MMP demonstrated technical feasibility of a process to produce ethanol and protein concentrate as co products from barley. The use of barley addresses irrigation constraints in south Idaho by creating increased value for a less water consumptive crop. Phase 1 also demonstrated integration of wastewater from a local food process plant into the process, overcoming constraints to process water supply. In Phase 1 MMP worked with its USDA/ARS CRDA partner (Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station) to demonstrate potential markets for the barley protein concentrate (BPC) as a feed ingredient in the south Idaho farmed trout industry. The BPC, with 50 to 60% protein content has a high value relative to distillers grains and makes ethanol production profitable despite historically high grain prices and current low price for ethanol. Phase II research will generate the data necessary to determine capital and operating cost for a ethanol/BPC manufacturing facility; and establish BPC inclusion rates and value in trout feeds. MMP will optimize process variables including use of wastewater, construct and operate a pilot plant and work with our CRDA partner to conduct research trials and commercial demonstrations of BPC in farmed trout feed. In phase II MMP will advance commercialization with the technical and financial documentation necessary to finance design, construction and start-up of a commercial facility. ?????"
A New Modular Tool Set for Live Imaging and Manipulating the Nervous System,1R41NS056830-01A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2008,1,210092.00,Montana Molecular LLC,619 N. Church Ave,Unit 4,Bozeman,MT,59715-3087,Yes,No,Yes,,,,amq@montanamolecular.com,,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): A New Modular Tool Set for Live Imaging and Manipulating the Nervous System Project summary. The nervous system contains the most complex and heterogeneous set of cell types in the body. Modern approaches in imaging, an
d genetically encoded reporters based on the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP), have made it possible to explore some of the dynamic processes involved in the development, function, and pathogenesis of the nervous system. However, the complexity of the nervo
us system has made it difficult to precisely target expression to particular sets of neurons. The objective of this proposal is to create and test prototypes of an entirely new generation of genetically encoded, modular fluorescent molecules for labeling a
nd imaging specific cell types and for manipulating the genes that they express. Specific promoters for many cell types of the nervous system are not available, barring genetic access to these cells. Using an innovative combinatorial strategy, this project
will provide access to these cells and enable researchers to specifically target gene expression and gain new insight into signal transduction, protein-protein interaction, and the dynamic processes of neuronal function and pathogenesis. Aim one is to cre
ate a modular pair of labeling proteins, the Fly and the Hook, that are tied together by leucine zippers. This modular system will provide access to neurons that have eluded labeling and purification to date. Aim two is to create a bi-functional, modular s
ystem for both labeling neurons and manipulating their genomes with complementing proteins that produce both fluorescence and Cre recombinase activity. A New Modular Tool Set for Live Imaging and Manipulating the Nervous System Project Narrative The develo
pment and function of the nervous system, as well as the death of neurons in disease and injury, are dynamic processes that are poorly understood. The goal of this project is to develop new fluorescent molecules for genetically labeling and manipulating ge
ne expression in specific neurons in the living brain. If this project is feasible, these molecules would lead to new understanding of the dynamic processes that underlie the pathogenesis of neurological diseases such as epilepsy, stroke and Alzheimer's."
Spray on Treatments for Critical Infrastructure Protection,NBCHC090003,DHS,DHS,SBIR,2008,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Cynthia Farrar,,4064975252,ckfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"Resodyn Corporation has proposed an engineered materials approach for preventing or mitigating the damage caused by blast, projectiles, and fire. The proposed Sprayon Treatments for Engineered Protection (STEP) system allows flexibility in both the design of the coating and the application. Sprayable material systems are proposed that have demonstrated blast, projectile and fire protection potential. The sprayon application capability allows for conformal coatings of complex geometries. The STEP process holds the promise of economical, moderate level blast, projectile, and fire protection for a great number of the Nations critical infrastructures."
Spray-on Composite System for Low Frequency Acoustic Mitigation,N00014-08-M-0266,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2008,1,69994.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Milan Ivosevic,Principal Investigator,4064975242,milan.ivosevic@resodyn.com,"This proposal addresses the need for an innovative and affordable material system that mitigates low frequency acoustic radiation through the hull induced by airborne noise in shipboard compartments containing Electronic Modular Enclosures. The proposed low frequency acoustic mitigation treatment is based on multiply-tuned, micro-sized absorbers embedded into a viscoelastic polymer matrix with a custom engineered dynamic modulus. Both, fully dense and porous polymer matrices and embedded micro-absorbs are developed and characterized in this work. The proposed acoustic treatment is a spray-on solution that can be cost-effectively apply in the field using Resodyn Corporation's portable Polymer-composite Thermal Spray (PcTS) system. Damping properties of the proposed dynamic attenuation method involving multiple tuned absorbers can be optimized to attenuate a predetermined low frequency acoustic noise band and meet all other shipboard application requirements."
Vegetable Oil Conditioning for Combustion,W9132T-08-C-0031,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2008,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Fangxiao Yang,Principal Investigator,4064975241,fxyang@resodyn.com,"The development of a straight vegetable oil (SVO) blending technology for combustion in boilers and in diesel engines is proposed. The overall objective of the proposal is to address the problems associated with using SVO as fuel; such as high viscosity, poor low temperature flow behavior, fuel inject and combustion chamber carbon deposition and engine power loss due to long term use. Vegetable oil conditioned to improve engine performance and to reduce exhaust emissions. Mathematical models will be established for predicting and calculating the viscosity, cloud point and heat of combustion of blended fuels. Diesel engine tests will be performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed technology and correctness of the calculations. The project will be designed to identify fuel properties, e.g., viscosity, volatility, heat of combustion, density, etc., that must be modified to meet ASTM fuel performance specifications. Provided basic feasibility is demonstrated in Phase I, the Phase II strategy is to extend research to in large-scale and long-term diesel engine testing. The formulated fuel testing will also be extended to boilers, generators and other diesel based combustion devices and machineries."
SBIR Phase I: Carbon Nanocone Containing Materials and its Potential in Polymer Reinforcement,0741031,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2008,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Manfred Biermann,DSc,4064975252,jberger@resodyn.com,Manfred Biermann,DSc,4064975252,jberger@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop new classes of advanced composites containing a recently discovered form of carbon, called the carbon nanocones (CNC) and carbon nanodisks (CND). The company has acquired exclusive rights from the Norwegian company that came up with this new class of materials, and this research will focus on taking advantage of the unique structure, morphology and properties of CNCs and CNDs to develop new classes of advanced composites. The research will combine the advanced mixing technology developed by the company to uniformly distribute these nanomaterials into the matrix of the polymer composite with the aim to study the electrical, mechanical and thermal properties of the composite materials. The broader impact of this research, if successful and commercially implemented, will be in the development of a new class of advanced polymer composites for use in thermal insulation, high-strength structural materials, and conducting polymer composites, which can be used in many applications, from microelectronics to engineering components. The new class of materials will also be of lower cost than the carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The research also aims to develop manufacturing processes for the composites which will be much simpler and less expensive."
"Seedster Technology for more Seed Recovery, less impurities, and faster ground speed harvesting camelina and canola for biodiesel feedstock",,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2008,1,80000.00,"NATIVE SEEDSTERS, INC","100 POLY DRIVE, SUITE 150",,Billings,MT,59101 0112,No,No,No,Maggie Arbuckle,Corporate Secretary/CFO,4062942995,info@nativeseedsters.com,Lee Arbuckle,President,4062942995,info@nativeseedsters.com,"Native Seedsters, Inc will test patented technology to recover camelina seed (Camelina sativa). Seedster principles appear apt for camelina. The Seedster counter-rotating brush and a combing drum form a `pinch point'. The comb teeth position seed stems. The brush dislodges seed and few impurities. Rapid brush rotation creates air to propel plucked seed into the conveyance system. Camelina grows on marginal soil in dry cool environments, such as the Northern Great Plains. The DOE/USDA SBIR Energy Summit urged small businesses to develop renewable energy technologies. Success of Seedster technology in camelina harvest would increase renewable biofuels with favorable energy balance. Camelina oil content, 35-40%, is excellent biodiesel feedstock. The large fraction of Omega-3 oil content, 34-39%, has superior nutritional qualities. Omega-3 oil amino acids in meal increase Omega-3 levels in eggs, milk, and meat. Acreage may soon pass a million acres in Montana. Yield range
from 1000-2500 lbs/per acre. Production costs are $46.40/acre due to lower seed, fertilizer, and herbicide costs. Camelina biodiesel production costs average $1.45 per gallon. Pod shattering or seed carry-over from combines leads to camelina seed loss. Combines limit ground speed to 1-2 mph to separate material. Round, small, dense camelina seed in fragile pods when ripe, number 300,000-465,000 per lb. Increased seed recovery impacts the bottom line of the grower. If feasible a seed harvester will be designed that recovers a high percentage of standing crop, with a few hulls and stems, at high ground speed."
Isoindolinones as Antimicrobial Agents,1R43AI078646-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2008,1,225624.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,,,,dana.e.warren@mail.promiliad.com,,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Antibiotic resistance among common pathogens is a serious public health problem because it compromises our ability to treat many infectious diseases. The problem has been compounded by the lack of discovery of new antib
iotics that act in novel ways. Such compounds are critically needed as bacterial resistance to older antibiotics, and even their newer derivatives, is growing. The goal of our work is to develop a new set of antibacterial compounds that we have discovered,
the isoindolinone derivative, as agents that are active against Gram-positive pathogens. In this Phase I SBIR feasibility study we ask a simple question: Can we demonstrate that our novel isoindolinone compounds have a good potential to lead to a new anti
bacterial drug? We will determine the general mechanism of action of our current lead compound. We will also prepare additional analogs to identify the general structural activity relationship of our isoindolinone derivatives. Our studies will show if we a
re able to prepare selective and druggable compounds suitable for further development in a Phase II study. Specifically, we plan to determine the mechanism of action of the isoindolinone class by determining if our lead compound perturbs the synthesis rate
s of protein, RNA, and DNA. We will also assess the ability of our lead compound to induce resistance and determine the synergy and antagonism of our lead compound with antibiotics of known mechanism of action. We will also prepare a highly focused set of
analogs of our lead compound, in order to determine an optimal substitution pattern around a key aromatic ring. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The ability to treat bacterial infections has become compromised by a growing resistance among common bacteria to antib
iotics; this has become a significant public health problem. We have identified a novel structural class of antibacterial agents, and will study the mechanism of action and prepare a select set of analogs to evaluate for antibacterial activity. If successf
ul, this project will provide a new class of antibacterial agents to combat the problem of antibiotic resistance."
Hyperspectral Sensor for Large-Area Monitoring of Carbon-Dioxide Reservoirs and Pipelines,DE-FG02-08ER86334,DOE,DOE,STTR,2008,1,99999.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Dr,4065863356,kehoe@resonon.com,Thomas Moon,Dr,4065863356,moon@resonon.com,"Geologic carbon sequestration has the potential to store a century┬┐s worth of anthropogenic carbon dioxide production. However, this solution will require numerous large underground reservoirs that may extend over hundreds of square kilometers and an extensive network of pipelines, some of which will be on the order of hundreds of kilometers long. Consequently, very large areas will need to be monitored to identify any leakage that may occur in either the reservoirs or the pipelines. The purpose of this project is to develop a low-cost CO2 leak detection system suitable for large-area, high-resolution, full-coverage monitoring. Previous work has shown that plants exposed to low-level underground releases of CO2 exhibit measurable changes in reflectance. Thus, vegetation over potential leakage sites could be utilized as a massive sensor array if one could 1 effectively monitor underground CO2-induced changes in plant reflectance, and 2 differentiate CO2 plant response from other factors such as drought and soil type that also affect plant reflectance. This project will develop such a sensor based on a spectral imaging system. Measurements taken during planned controlled CO2 release experiments from an underground pipeline will be used to determine the important spatial resolution requirement of the sensor. Additional work will be devoted to identifying techniques to differentiate CO2 induced plant response from other factors. Results from these studies will be used to design an optimal sensor system. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the monitoring of CO2 reservoirs and pipelines, the technology should be useful for monitoring other types of pipeline gases, such as methane. Additionally, the technology may be useful for agricultural applications"
Enhanced Dynamic Range Proteomic Analysis,1R41RR025311-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2008,1,399982.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,kehoe@resonon.com,,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): A novel enhanced dynamic range camera (EDRaC) is proposed for greatly improved fluorescence detection in proteomics. In the longer term the EDRaC can improve the performance of a wide range of biomedical applications us
ing fluorescent microwell plate reading and/or microscopy. The initial emphasis will be to develop, demonstrate, and apply the technology to multicolor fluorescent 2D gel imaging. The system will use a Digital Micro-mirror Device (DMD) and digital feedback
to selectively attenuate bright pixels before imaging onto a CCD focal plane array, thereby greatly reducing stray light in the camera and enabling simultaneous measurements of very bright and very dim regions in samples. In the limit of perfect imaging a
nd no scattered light, the resulting dynamic range of this system would be the product of the DMD dynamic range (~13 bits) and the CCD dynamic range (typically 12-14 bits in practice due to stray light) for a maximum system dynamic range of approximately 2
5-27 bits. In practice, we expect that this approach will add between two and four orders of magnitude (100-10,000x) of dynamic range to fluorescent detection. This improvement will be extremely valuable for fluorescent 2D gel imaging, which currently suff
ers from dynamic range limitations, with the most advanced multicolor fluorescent detection dyes. A work plan has been developed to design, assemble, and demonstrate the technology. The design effort will include detailed ray-trace optical modeling, stray-
light analysis, and mechanical design. Prototype testing of a bench scale system will include measurements of the system Modulation Transfer Function, stray-light measurements, and measurements of the dynamic range for various scenes. Following system char
acterization the system dynamic range will be demonstrated on gels. High dynamic range plasma protein patterns will be investigated on 2D zoom gels, using samples from selected disease states that are depleted of the most abundant proteins, using the EDRaC
prototype to seek candidate protein pattern correlations with health and disease. Optical signal strengths from biomedical samples can vary by factors of over a billion (the dynamic range), whereas conventional cameras can measure signals that vary by fac
tors of about ten-thousand. This is a common disparity for proteomics and other biomedical applications and it greatly limits the information that can be obtained. The proposed system will greatly decrease this disparity, thereby enabling more accurate and
easier measurements for numerous biomedical applications."
SBIR Phase II: Online Chapter Marketplace for Biology Learning Materials,0749862,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2008,2,499999.00,SimBiotic Software,"1280 S. 3rd, Second Floor",,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,Eli Meir,PhD,6172852583,meir@simbio.com,Eli Meir,PhD,6172852583,meir@simbio.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project focuses on the development of an electronic replacement for reading materials currently used by the majority of biology undergraduate students. This replacement will combine smaller reading sections with more active learning components such as simulated experiments. The system to be developed will be open to contribution from a wide variety of authors and subject matter experts. Textbooks are currently used in most college biology environments to present material to students. However, learning through textbooks occurs primarily through memorization. This project is developing new innovative ways to facilitate productive learning techniques, and for configuring take-home assignments of biology students to be more active, without losing the content needed for understanding biological systems. This project has the potential to transform one of the pillars of science education, the textbook, from a passive reading instrument to an active learning tool. This could contribute to the improvement of learning gains for the at least one million students per year that participate in college level biology classes each year in the U.S. On a broad scale, this project eventually could help improve learning across all the sciences."
"Novel Use of Plant Tissue Culture for Site-adapted, Acid Soil, Heavy Metal Tolerant, Native Plants Useful for Mine Land Reclamation",,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2008,2,350000.00,"SMK PLANTS, LLC",5477 GENE SARAZEN DR,,Billings,MT,59106-1143,Yes,No,No,Michael G. King,Owner,4066904996,mike@smkplants.com,Sandra M. King,Owner,4066528468,sandy@smkplants.com,"SMK Plants LLC will use plant tissue culture to quickly produce large numbers of acid-soil heavy-metal tolerant (AHMT) locally-adapted native plants suitable for revegetating land contaminated by hard rock mining wastes. Large numbers of AHMT plants are in demand because of the immense area of degraded mine land needing to be reclaimed. It will take billions of dollars to reclaim these lands. We proved in SBIR Phase I the principle that we can find, collect, and tissue culture native plants which grow directly on acidic heavy-metal (AHM)contaminated soil. These plants multiply and root similarly to commercial ornamental plant species with similar production costs, making them economical for reclamation. The goal for our SBIR Phase II project is to tissue culture locally adapted native plant species growing on AHM soils, then successfully grow and over-winter them under commercial greenhouse conditions, and eventually use them to revegetate AHM sites. We will prove that our plants are AHMT with greenhouse and field trials over the two year project term. We will identify native plants that are highly desired by mine land reclamationists by using end-user surveys and canvassing our own contacts. We will have an inventory of AHMT plants for use by August 2010. Revegetation of degraded mine land will benefit society by reducing wind and water erosion from these lands,reducing human exposure and improving human health. Reclamation and revegetation will also improve wildlife habitat, improve aesthetics and recreational values, and may help endangered species."
OBSERVE: Ocular-Based Screening Evaluation and Real-Time Verification Examination,HSHQDC0800070,DHS,DHS,SBIR,2008,1,99981.00,Veridical Research and Design Corporation,211 W. Main - Lower Level,PO Box 6503,Bozeman,MT,59771-6503,No,No,No,Frank M. Marchak,,4065229045,fmarchak@vradc.com,Frank M. Marchak,President,4065229045,fmarchak@vradc.com,"To support DHS's goals of developing new physiological and behavioral sensor technologies for homeland security operations that determine intent to deceive, Veridical Research and Design Corporation proposes to determine the feasibility of developing a conceptual framework and architecture for an ocular-based method of detecting deception intention. The approach is to empirically derive ocular-based measures of cognitive load and arousal, including pupil diameter, blinks and gaze, and instantiate the findings as a model, called OBSERVE (Ocular-Based Screening Evaluation and Real-time Verification Examination). The output will be used to define a theoretical framework that will serve to delineate the conceptual architecture of a system called OBSERVER (Ocular-Based Screening Evaluation and Real-time Verification Examination Remotely) that can be employed to non-intrusively assess an individual's intent to deceive."
A Lower-cost System for Wind Power Generation on Individual Farms and Ranches,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2008,2,350000.00,"WIND INNOVATIONS, LLC",502 S 6TH AVE,,Bozeman,MT,59715-4564,No,No,No,Will Swearingen,Vice President,4066401560,wds@montana.edu,David Morris,President,5035391745,dcmorris@ltgspeed.com,"There is potential for a vast expansion of wind-power production in rural America. However, US sales of small wind turbines are still relatively limited, amounting to fewer than 7,000 units in 2006. The major reason for these limited sales is the high system cost and long payback period of current wind turbines. Other reasons include public objections to the visual appearance and noise of conventional wind turbines, and their perceived lethality to birds and bats. The proposed Wind Fin technology has been designed to overcome all of these major barriers to market acceptance of small wind systems. Phase I research on this system, called the Wind Fin, demonstrates that it is comparable in performance to state-of-the-art commercial wind turbines at substantially lower system cost. In fact, these results indicate that the capital cost of the Wind Fin system will be half of that of leading commercial wind turbines of comparable power output. This will be verified and validated in the proposed Phase II project. If successful, this new technology has the potential to greatly expand wind-power production at the local farm, ranch, and rural community level. Agricultural operations and rural industry can benefit directly from lower energy costs and potentially be able to generate significant additional income by selling power to utilities. Wind energy harvested at the local farm or community level can play a major role in fostering rural development."
Multiplex Fluorescent Zdyes for Differential Glycomic Detection,1R41RR023802-01A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2008,1,388316.00,"ZDYE, LLC","ZDYE, LLC",2500 BIG BEAR RD,GALLATIN GATEWAY,MT,59730-9725,No,No,No,,,,dt008@aol.com,,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Protein posttranslational modifications (PTMs) control much of biology. Glycosylation is one of the most common PTMs and more powerful tools are needed to study the occurrence and relative levels of glycosylation. In th
is proposal we describe the development of new multicolor fluorescent labeling reagents designed for powerful, differential glycomics analysis. The broad, long-term objectives of this work are to simultaneously monitor global changes in levels of (1) prote
ins, (2) a variety of post-translational modifications, and (3) enzyme activities--in response to biological variables, with greatly improved sensitivity. To accomplish these objectives we are developing (in a cooperative project between Zdye LLC and Monta
na State University) a new family of ultrasensitive, highly water soluble fluorescent dyes called Zdyes for multicolor, differential labeling--that do not shift the isoelectric points of Zdye-labeled proteins and tend to enhance recovery of labeled protein
s. Most PTMs cause shifts in 2D gel spot positions and thus 2D gels provide global pictures of PTM patterns. Our recent work has focused on overcoming past limitations in 2D gel technology and measuring changes in protein levels with biological stimulation
. Specific Aims: (1) We will use ortho hydroxymethyl-substituted arylboronic acids to form covalent boronate esters with 1,2-cis diols or 1,3-diols, which are present on all carbohydrates. The ortho hydroxymethyl substituent enhances the binding constants
with glycopyranoses about one hundred fold. A benzophenone group will be attached to the arylboronic acid and irradiated to trap the reversible boronate complex. The irradiated benzophenone is designed to abstract a hydrogen atom from the carbohydrate back
bone and form a carbon-carbon bond between the carbohydrate and the carbonyl carbon of the benzophenone. Excited benzophenone reacts very poorly with water and if it does not find a C-H to abstract it returns to the ground state to be excited again. Bindin
g and photo-crosslinking will be characterized with a variety of mono and disaccharides. (2) Fluorescent Zdyes will be tethered to the enhanced phenyl boronic acid-benzophenone sugar linker and characterized for crosslinking to a variety of sugars. (3) Gly
coprotein standards will be crosslinked with two different-colored Zdye Enhanced Sugar-linkers (Zdye ES-linkers) and conditions optimized for differential labeling and analysis with 1D and 2D gels. (4) Complex protein mixtures from mammalian cell lines exp
ressing human glycoproteins and rat brain samples will be labeled with different colored Zdye ES-linkers and Zdye protein linkers and analyzed on 2D gels to quantify the relative amounts of glycosylation under different biological conditions. Dr. Edward Dr
atz, PI, is an expert in proteomics, Dr. Paul Grieco, co-PI, is a leader in total organic synthesis, Dr. Mary Cloninger, co-PI, is experienced in carbohydrates and glycoproteins, and Dr. Don Thorne, CEO Zdye LLC has a PhD in pharmacology and expertise in g
lycoprotein research and business development: a highly synergistic team to develop new glycomics tools. Glycoproteins serve crucial roles in cellular communication and mediate many mechanisms in health and disease. For example, carbohydrate post-tr
anslational protein modifications are central to viral and bacterial infection, for metastatic spread of cancer cells, for controlling cellular differentiation, for mounting immune responses, and are involved in modulating transcription factor activity - t
hat control gene expression, in an analogous manner to reversible phosphorylation. Tools to study glycoproteins, however, lag in development at this time and we describe the development of new fluorescence detection technology to determine the relative amo
unts of glycoproteins in samples exposed to different biological variables, which promise significant advantages for biomedical research."
Multiplex Fluorescent Dyes for Ultrasensitive Proteomics,2R42RR021790-03A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2008,2,1119030.00,"ZDYE, LLC","ZDYE, LLC",2500 BIG BEAR RD,GALLATIN GATEWAY,MT,59730-9725,No,No,No,,,,dt008@aol.com,,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The broad long-term goals of this project are to develop more powerful proteomics detection technology with greatly improved sensitivity, that will reveal the global patterns of biologically stimulated changes (differen
tial detection) in protein levels, posttranslational modifications and enzyme activities simultaneously (using 6-12 channel multicolor fluorescent dye (Zdye) detection), develop ways to use the patterns of protein isoform levels to recognize changing physi
ological states, and to more efficiently target and obtain the variable proteins for detailed mass spectral analysis. The specific aims and research design of the present proposal are to: (1) scale up the synthesis of amino-reactive Zdye and Z2dyes that we
re developed and shown feasible during the current Phase I proposal; (2) prepare and test highly water soluble Zdye saturation labels that react with protein thiols to avoid precipitation of labeled proteins (which is a problem with available thiol saturat
ion labels for 2D gel detection), to facilitate spot picking or targeted electroelution of the proteins of each type in the saturation-labeled spots of interest, and to provide additional differential detection sensitivity, compared to Zdye amino labels (g
t30x total sensitivity increase compared to currently available amino labels for multicolor 2D gel detection); (3) develop and test cleavable thiol-reactive Zdyes that leave small isotopic tags behind after cleavage, which will allow quantitative mass spec
tral analysis of the relative amounts of each protein of interest, even when two or more proteins are present in the gel spots targeted, and demonstrate fluorescence enhanced targeted-SILAC (stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture) to pin-
point proteins for mass spectral analysis-- resulting in more efficient FET-SILAC experiments; (4) develop and test several new Zdyes colors for expanded multi-channel multiplexing, to enable single gel studies of global changes accompanying, for example,
multi-point dose-response curves, multipoint kinetic curves, and simultaneous, global comparisons of several parallel samples; and (5) develop and test new dye chromophore frameworks for the Zdye and the Z2Dye designs that will be substantially easier and
cheaper to produce, provide more affordable products to the end-user, may be feasible to use in 1D gel applications, and will embody the same design concepts proved feasible in the first or second generation Zdyes. This project has strong health-relatednes
s, since a large fraction of proteins and protein posttranslationally modified isoforms are not reliably detectable with current proteomics technology. Protein posttranslational modifications are at the heart of most biological mechanisms, since PTMs contr
ol protein activity, subcellular localization and protein-protein interactions. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Cellular mechanisms controlling health and disease depend primarily on proteins and a wide variety of modifications of proteins to regulate cell
ular activities, but current proteomics technology remains inadequate to visualize all the protein forms present and to determine all the forms that change during biological responses. This Phase II STTR proposal builds on the successful foundation of Phas
e I to synthesize and demonstrate a new family of different-colored, highly water soluble fluorescent dyes (Zdyes) that take greatly expanded advantage of the unique ability of multiplexed 2D gels to reveal global changes in the relative amounts of protein
s and modifications of proteins. The greatly improved sensitivity and simultaneous comparison of a larger number of sample conditions, provided by the Zdye technology, will reveal the changes in the patterns of protein species that occur down to the limit
of single protein copies per cell, to more clearly expose the inner workings of biological mechanisms."
Procedure Integrated Development Environment (PRIDE),NNX08CB03P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,1,98845.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur W. Molin,Program Manager,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,"NASA captures and distributes operational knowledge in the form of procedures. These procedures are created and accessed by a range of people performing many different jobs. These people have different needs for procedure data and different ways of interacting with procedures. We propose an Procedure Integrated Development Environment which will present different editing modes and different views depending on the users and tasks, but will use a consistent data representation for all users. We propose to explore alternate editing paradigms and discover which are the most valuable for NASA operations. We propose to build this environment on the basis of an existing prototype, PRIDE, which was developed for the Engineering Directorate of Johnson Space Center."
Electronic Procedures for Medical Operations,NNX08CC09P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,1,100000.00,S&K Aerospace,63066 Old Highway 93,,St Ignatius,MT,59865-0399,No,Yes,No,Arthur Molin,Business Official,2814801453,amolin@ska-corp.com,Mary B. Hudson,Principal Investigator,2814801453,mhudson@ska-corp.com,"We propose an alternative to using Microsoft Word for representing medical procedures that will make the procedures easier to construct and maintain, particularly when there are changes to the hardware or changes to the resulting format of the procedure. We call this alternative an ""electronic procedure"". Rather than a text-based document, this content-based document separates the text from the formatting standards and tags items contained in the procedure so that they can be recognized by other electronic systems.
If a standard format changes, a reference to that format is updated. The electronic procedures can be re-converted in a single batch process, and the entire body of procedures will have the new format. Changes to hardware can be made in a similar manner, where changing a piece of hardware in a procedure will change all references to it in that procedure.
Switching to this new representation offers many short and long-term benefits, which we describe herein. We have already demonstrated the use of electronic procedures for modeling ISS operational procedures (and in modeling one ISS medical procedure). We hope to extend this work into the medical operations field so we can demonstrate how medical procedures can benefit from this technology."
Fiber based modulated pulsed source for microwave photonic lidar applications,N68335-07-C-0289,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,79990.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Vice President,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Scott Remington,Laser Engineer,4065220388,remington@advr-inc.com,"The proposed high power green laser source with RF-modulated pulses will enable a new class of remote sensing instruments capable of achieving precise information from environments dominated by backscatter signals. Current remote sensing technologies lack capability to identify and discriminate objects under real-time environmental conditions. A hybrid lidar-radar system consisting of a pulsed laser is modulated at RF frequencies is capable of extracting meaningful data from the high intensity backscattered light in the water. A 500 kHz pulsed, fiber-amplified laser is proposed for the laser source. The pulse envelope is modulated via an electro-optic switch from 500 MHz to >1 GHz. The average power is amplified to several watts using a multi-stage Yb-doped fiber amplifier. In order for effective transmission through water, the 1064 nm radiation is frequency converted to 532 nm using either periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate (SLT) or potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP). The all fiber design using a Yb-doped fiber amplifier, an EO switch and PPSLT or PPKTP ensures highly efficient and rugged performance. In addition to enabling a major advance in remote sensing within the littoral zone, the hybrid source will find direct application in involving highly obscured environments such as dust, smoke or moisture-laden environments."
High Power Electro-Optic Modulator for Space-Based Applications,NNG07CA08C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,2,599946.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip W. Battle,Vice President of Research,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Christopher K. Palassis,Principal Investigator,4065220388,palassis@advr-inc.com,"ADVR, Inc. proposes the development of a fiber coupled, high power, electro-optically controlled, space qualified, phase modulator for the NASA Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). The proposed device will be capable of phase modulating a 1 W or greater, continuous wave optical signal at multi-gigahertz rates at 1064 nm. The key innovation is the use of a waveguide embedded in a non-linear optical material suitable for high optical power handling. The phase modulators used for LISA must be rugged and must perform optimally in a radiation environment over the mission lifetime. To achieve this goal, the proposed phase modulator development will include a fiber-in-fiber-out design that will readily lend itself to future space qualification for mechanical stability of the package and radiation damage resistance of the non-linear optical material."
Waveguide Phase Modulator for Integrated Planar Lightwave Circuits in KTP,NNL07AA96P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,1,99984.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy S. Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Shirley P. McNeil,Principal Investigator,4065220388,mcneil@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort proposes the development of a potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) waveguide phase modulator for future integration into a Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) used for high spectral resolution aerosol and cloud lidar applications. The PLC is a monolithic substrate that integrates key optical and electro-optical components. These individual components are currently used to lock a seed laser and high power host laser to an iodine absorption line. This technology is important for lidar systems requiring high frequency stability and accuracy. The PLC concept advances NASA's lidar systems due to its compact, efficient, and reliable design, thus enabling use on small aircraft and satellites. The key objective in this SBIR proposal is to establish the feasibility of fabricating a low-voltage, 250MHz waveguide phase modulator in KTP that can support moderate optical powers at 532nm. A baseline PLC design will be presented that will incorporate the phase modulator. The focus of the Phase II effort will be to fabricate a PLC with integrated phase modulator based on this Phase I study."
"Highly Efficient, Compact, Wavelength Converters for Pulsed and CW Laser Sources Used in Lidar-Based Remote Sensing and Ranging Systems",NNX07CA64P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,1,99970.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Betsy S. Heckel,Business Official,4065220388,heckel@advr-inc.com,Gregg D. Switzer,Principal Investigator,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating waveguides in stoichiometric lithium tantalite (SLT) for highly efficient, quasi-phase matched (QPM) frequency conversion of continuous wave and high peak-power, quasi-continuous laser sources used in lidar-based remote sensing and ranging applications. The key innovation in this effort is the use of large diameter, optical quality, z-cut SLT, which has only recently become commercially available, as the waveguide substrate material. Relative to the standard congruently grown lithium tantalate wafers, stoichiometric lithium tantalate wafers have significantly higher optical damage thresholds, stronger nonlinear and electro-optic response, an expanded transparency window and significantly reduced poling field. Furthermore, because the stoichiometric materials are not lithium deficient, the fabricated waveguides are expected to be optically stable. During the Phase I effort the feasibility of fabricating waveguides in z-cut SLT wafers using annealed proton exchange will be determined, and the impact that variations in processing conditions have on the optical properties will be measured. In the Phase II effort, the waveguide fabrication and poling technology will be refined and grating structures suitable for specific NASA applications requiring wavelength conversion."
SBIR Phase I: Ultra-Fast Electro-Optically Tuned Laser,0712025,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,99774.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Tony D. Roberts,PhD,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,Tony D. Roberts,PhD,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a compact, rugged, rapidly and widely tunable, low noise, narrowband laser for use in microwave photonic processing applications. The key innovation in this effort is the use of a shaped ferroelectric in conjunction with a diffraction grating to produce an electro-optically controlled wavelength tuning element. The monolithic electro-optic tuning element, when combined with a semiconductor or rare-earthed doped gain media will result in an ultra-compact narrowband laser source that will be capable of extremely fast, mode hope free tuning over 100 GHz with a programmable chirping profile. Use of fiber coupled semiconductor optical amplifiers will ensure output power of at least 100 mW in a diffraction limited beam, and act as an optimal seed source for further possible amplification by a fiber laser amplifier. The research objectives of the Phase I effort include designing, fabricating, and demonstrating the successful operation of a prototype EO tunable laser. This effort will lead to advanced tuning capabilities in the field of microwave photonics. With the increasing demand for high-speed communications, there has been growing interest in developing techniques that can transmit microwave and/or millimeter waves over optical fiber. Low-noise tunable lasers would prove especially useful in this field. The technology will also be useful for improved Ladar sensors that can perform acquisition, tracking, and discrimination on missile and airborne platforms. Other potential applications include antenna remoting, beam forming networks for array antennas, feed networks for wireless communications, photonic processing of microwave signals, cable television signal distribution, sensor systems, and instrumentation. During the Phase I, the team will continue its effort in creating a broader impact in research and education through its onsite research program for university undergraduates and high school teachers."
SBIR Phase I: Non-Destructive Inspection Techniques to Significantly Improve the Manufacturability of KTP Waveguides,0638023,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,99977.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Christopher A. Kaleva,BS,4065220388,kaleva@advr-inc.com,Christopher A. Kaleva,BS,4065220388,kaleva@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovative Research project explores the feasibility of developing a manufacturing process that will both increase the rate of production and improve the yield of high quality waveguides in potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP). Waveguides in KTP are ideally suited for use in a wide variety of commercially significant laser-based applications, however, their widespread use has been limited due to cost and time associated with the current manufacturing methodology. The key innovation in this effort is to combine recent advances in non-destructive incoming wafer inspection with existing wafer level lithographic processing to increase the area for uniform waveguide fabrication (increased production). KTP waveguide technology has contributed to cutting edge research in a variety of fields including short pulse generation, wavelength stabilization and conversion, and photonics based quantum information science. Immediate commercial applications include pulsed and cw laser diode conversion to produce visible wavelengths for biomedical instrumentation. Low cost waveguides will also help enable new and emerging opportunities associated with quantum information science and secure communications, analog photonic circuits, and rapidly tunable Bragg stabilized diodes."
Environmental Sensor for Autonomous UAVS,W911W6-08-C-0025,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2007,1,69918.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Improved observations of the battlespace are of key and growing importance in today's combat environment. UAVs are making key contributions in this area, and sensor improvements are a key part of increasing UAV capabilities. However, all sensors are subject to degradation under detrimental environmental conditions. Adding a sensor system to UAVs that enables the in-situ identification and quantification of such conditions will aid in the most effective use of UAVs and their onboard sensors as well as enable more accurate evaluation of the sensor data being returned. Anasphere proposes to develop a highly miniaturized, low-power environmental sensor system - on the order of one to two cubic inches in volume, and with a power consumption on the order of 500 milliwatts - suitable for use on a broad variety of UAVs. Specific quantities to be measured include standard meteorological parameters, visibility, ambient light level, and precipitation rate and type. On-board processing will yield additional value-added parameters of significance. In Phase I, a proof-of-concept system will be designed, fabricated, and demonstrated on a UAV. The Phase I Option will involve definition of Phase II systems and UAV interfaces. Phase II would see iterative design improvements and tests culminating in a production-ready system."
Miniature Carbon Dioxide Sensor for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems,NNX07CA65P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,1,99965.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John S. Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John D. Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"There is a growing need to develop improved technologies for precise airborne measurements of carbon dioxide, CO2. CO2 measurements are of great importance to many areas of research, including climate change, global carbon budgets, and geological research in relation to volcanic activity. At the same time, we are entering a period of time in which Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are becoming more widely used for atmospheric research. UAS platforms have already proven themselves as a uniquely capable means for making measurements in remote areas and over oceans. However, existing CO2 measurement technologies are difficult to adapt to or use in the UAS world. This proposal describes a simple and inexpensive sensor for the precise determination of atmospheric CO2 that will be small enough for flight on small UAS platforms and sounding balloons.
Phase I will include the fabrication of a proof-of-concept sensor system, laboratory characterization of the sensor, and culminate in a demonstration of the sensor on a UAS. Phase II will emphasize improving the basic manufacturability of the design, as well as much more extensive laboratory and UAS testing."
Sensing of Upper Atmosphere,FA8718-07-C-0011,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,2,749044.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Accurate observations and forecasts of meteorological conditions in the battlespace are of extreme importance to the most effective employment of military assets. In many instances, it is not possible to gather in-situ meteorological data by routine means such as sounding balloons carrying radiosondes. There is a need to provide a means by which such data may be gathered with the requisite accuracy and density even over denied or hostile territory; it is also desirable to obtain such measurements in the most covert manner possible. In Phase I, a proof-of-concept system centered around a balloon-borne dropsonde launcher was designed, fabricated, and demonstrated. Phase II work will involve a series of incremental improvements to the Phase I design, along with flight tests to demonstrate each improvement. Key improvements will be centered around the dropsondes, balloon technology, launcher design, and communications systems. At the conclusion of Phase II, a fully-proven system for retrieving in-situ meteorological profiles over hostile or denied territory will have been designed and field tested, and will be ready for production. Two prototype systems will be delivered to the Air Force for evaluation."
Protective Coating for Large-Diameter Bearing Races,FA8650-07-C-5013,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,2,749993.00,"ARCOMAC SURFACE ENGINEERING, LLC",6575 Butler Creek Road,,Missoula,MT,59808 8656,No,No,No,Fred Heckerman,VP of Operations,4065497451,fheckerman@arcomac.com,Vladimir Gorokhovsky,Director of Research,4065227620,VIGASE@aol.com,"Critical large bearings in the F-35 thrust vector system must operate with absolute reliability under high loads, high heat and corrosive attack from salt air and fluorinated lubricant at elevated temperatures. A unique patented Filtered Arc Plasma Source Ion Deposition (FAPSID) process developed by Arcomac Surface Engineering will deposit an atomically bonded, multiple layered, integrated coating combining different metal and ceramic materials, each with specialized properties that improve both wear and corrosion resistance. This will further increase vector bearing performance, extend component life and reduce life cycle cost. Bearing components with optimized multiplex coating(s) will be rigorously evaluated for their durability and reliability under aggressive test conditions. The FAPSID process is scalable to produce production coatings on the large diameter bearing races in the F35 thrust vectoring system. These coatings have an enormous potential application to a wide range of military and civilian aircraft engine components that operate in severe wear and corrosive conditions."
Development of a selective biosensor for detecting organophosphate pesticide expo,1R43ES016392-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,597217.00,"ATERIS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",910 Technology Blvd STE G,,Bozeman,MT,59718-,No,No,No,Jon O. Nagy,,,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,Jon O. Nagy,,4065868420,JON.NAGY@NAGYCONSULT.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant) This SBIR project is in response to the call for the development of field-deployable or wearable personal sensors for monitoring point-of-contact exposures to airborne chemicals through biosample testing. The broa
d objective of this proposal is to develop an extremely sensitive and selective biosensor device capable of detecting and discriminating proteins in human serum samples taken from patients suspected of being exposed to potentially harmful levels of organop
hosphate-based pesticides. This represents a novel approach in biomarker analysis because each organophosphate (OP) pesticide results in a distinct protein fingerprint structure that can be identified, distinguished from other agents and their conjugates
, and quantified. Using ATERIS Technologies novel sensor thin polymer film technology, reporter domains will be customized with specific protein-recognition molecules that detect the OP poisoned proteins. This will make it possible to develop an inexpensiv
e, yet highly rapid, sensitive, and accurate device to analyze exposure to OP pesticides, assess the type and extent of OP agent exposure and then this information will guide the therapeutic intervention necessary. The major milestones in this Phase I SBIR
project are first to isolate biorecognition proteins capable of discriminating between native and OP-poisoned human proteins, then show proof-of-principal for the sensitivity and reliability of the film sensor element. In the Phase II of this program, the
detection films will be incorporated into a reader device and the reproducibility and accuracy of detection of OP-modified proteins in actual serum samples will be determined. The data generated will guide the design of the commercial biosensor device. Th
e end user of such a device will be the field personnel likely to be exposed to OP pesticides and clinical laboratories likely to encounter patients that are suspected to have been exposed to OP chemical agents."
SONOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS FOR RAPID DETECTION OF VARROA MITES AND OTHER PATHOLOGIES WITHOUT OPENING THE BEEHIVE,2007-33610-17968,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2007,1,80000.00,"BEE ALERT TECHNOLOGY, INC.",1620 RODGERS ST STE 1,,Missoula,MT,59802 1714,No,Yes,No,Robert Seccomb,CFO - Information Systems Manager,4065413160,rseccomb@beealert.blackfoot.net,Robert Seccomb,,4065413160,rseccomb@beealert.blackfoot.net,"This project is aimed at helping protect crop productivity by providing a means of rapidly assessing the health of bee colonies used for pollination. We propose research leading to the design of a hand-held device that could scan a honey bee colony, and quickly indicate the condition of that colony. The increase in efficiency of examining colonies for pollination, for honey production, for queen rearing or for overwintering assessment can not be overstated. Project objectives include research to: 1) verify reliable detection of varroa mites and queenlessness, 2) expand the concept to discovery of foulbrood, hive beetle, and Africanized bees; and 3) develop algorithms using statistical or artificial neural network (ANN) methods for rapid sonographic analysis. The proposed work builds on preliminary evidence that levels of varroa mite infestation in hives and exposures to air-borne toxicants can be determined from sounds produced by the colony. We will build a library of sonograms referenced to healthy colonies, as well as mite and disease infected colonies. We will develop statistical algorithms for sonogram analysis and intend to include pattern-recognizing approaches such as ANNs. Finally, we will investigate incorporating these analysis programs into a hand-held device with an acoustic probe (Phase I). For Phase II, we envision working prototypes and systems built into sentinel hives for remote management of colonies. This technology could revolutionize beekeeping, in the U.S. and worldwide."
SBIR Phase I: Advanced Mathematical Algorithms to Improve Execution-Quality of Block Trades,0638272,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,99750.00,"Benchmark Simulation, LLC",28600 Hwy. 200 E.,Ste. 205,Potomac,MT,59823 9568,No,No,No,Lester W. Dye,MS,4065498174,lwdye@benchmarksimulation.com,Lester W. Dye,MS,4065498174,lwdye@benchmarksimulation.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the need for improved block trading capabilities in the financial markets. Block trading, or sell-side trading, involves transacting large blocks of stock (for example, 450,000 shares of IBM), while trying to minimize market impact and receive the best price for the stock. Block-trading technology is necessary for institutions holding large positions in equities. Much of the current block-trading technology is inefficient and expensive, often being done by hand or by very simple software systems. The research proposed here will leverage Benchmark's expertise in diffusive systems and high-frequency trading technology. Benchmark's proposed block-trading system will reduce market impact, lower transaction costs, and improve returns for institutions making large block trades. The potential commercial value of an advanced block-trading system is substantial and global. Also, fundamental advances in spacetime finite element inversion associated with this research may have broader application to numerical simulation in other fields."
"STTR Phase I: Compact, Low-cost Remote Sensing of Methamphetamine Labs",0712406,NSF,NSF,STTR,2007,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Jason K. Brasseur,PhD,4065997657,brasseur@bridgephotonics.com,Jason K. Brasseur,Dr,3065997657,brasseur@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I research project addresses the need for sensitive, portable, low-cost, laser-based remote sensing devices to detect chemical effluents of illicit methamphetamine (meth) production from a distance. The proposed project will develop an innovative correlated-mode laser source for high-resolution mid-infrared differential absorption lidar. To accomplish this the research team will base the research on a compact, monolithic, passively Q-switched laser/optical parametric oscillator design that has proven incredibly effective for ranging purposes (no spectroscopy) in demanding environments. This source, in its present state, is unsuitable for high-resolution mid-infrared spectroscopy. The team will therefore advance the laser by targeting the desired effluent mid-IR wavelengths, significantly improving the spectral, spatial, and temporal emission characteristics, and incorporating dual mode operation. Realization of the laser source will enable real-time remote detection of meth labs in widely varying environments, locations, and circumstances with quantum-limited detection sensitivity, spectral
selectivity for the desired molecules in a spectral region that is difficult to access, and differential measurement capabilities for effective self calibration. Methamphetamine (meth) use in the U.S. and particularly in the state of Montana has reached epidemic levels. Meth is considered the most addictive illicit drug and is easily produced with widely available and inexpensive ingredients. The drug is often implicated in violent crimes and is rapidly becoming more popular with teenagers and minorities. Meth use in Montana is dramatically higher than the national average and almost 3/4 of the state's federal sentences were meth related in 2003. Aggressive use prevention efforts are showing progress, but complementary efforts to address the supply side of the meth problem are direly needed. In fact, 65% of Montana's young adults report that meth is very or somewhat easy to obtain. Meth's abundant availability is often attributed to the fact that it is alarmingly easy to produce and that makeshift clandestine labs are now ubiquitous (in homes, apartments, motels, storage facilities, etc). These labs are becoming increasingly difficult for law enforcement to uncover as the producers become more sophisticated and mobile. Drug enforcement personnel on local, national, and international levels require the ability to detect meth labs rapidly and in widely varying locations and circumstances. This capability currently does not exist."
"STTR Phase I: Novel Holographic Wavefront Sensing Device Enabling Light Weight, Low Cost, Fast Adaptive Optics Systems",0712256,NSF,NSF,STTR,2007,1,150000.00,"Bridger Photonics, Inc","2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4",,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,Jason K. Brasseur,PhD,4065997657,brasseur@bridgerphotonics.com,Jason K. Brasseur,Dr,4065997657,brasseur@bridgerphotonics.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will determine the feasibility of a novel holographic wave front sensing device. The advantage of this modal holographic wave front sensor is that it optically processes the incoming wave front, automatically generating the coefficients for the feedback signal. This is in contrast to other approaches, which rely on conventional computers to perform the processor intensive wave front expansions before feedback. By using holographic optical processing, the wave front sensor can be made to operate on a much faster time scale allowing for device operation in regimes of heavy turbulence or in extremely high resolution, large aperture systems. Other advantages include reduced size, complexity, and cost of the overall wave front device, allowing for more sensors, actuators and larger closed loop bandwidths for a given fixed budget. The technical work plan includes performance analysis of a multi-channel wave front sensing device, actual testing and measurements on a multi-channel device, examination of the major issues and barriers to practicality, and a full system device design
and feasibility study.There are a variety of applications that would benefit from extremely fast, highly complex (i.e. a large number of sensors and actuators) adaptive optics systems. Scientific and government applications include imaging satellites and spacecraft through turbulent atmospheres as well as compensating atmospheric turbulence in astronomical imaging. There has also been substantial interest in adaptive optics for the projection of laser beams through the atmosphere, providing highly focused spots on targets several hundreds of kilometers away. Similar applications, both beaming and imaging, can be envisioned through highly turbulent flows. In each of these major application areas, there is a push towards larger aperture or sparse aperture systems to increase both the light gathering capability and the resolving power of the system. Ultimately, there is a large need for faster adaptive optics systems that are capable of driving hundreds to thousands of actuators at very high closed loop bandwidths. This proposal will enhance scientific knowledge on holographic optical processing and how such technology can be used to create such an applicable, reduced complexity, low cost adaptive optics systems."
SBIR Phase I: (IT-B5) Feasibility to Run Novel Voice Interface on a Low-Power Microcontroller,0711698,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,"CameronSound, LLC",2004 Centennial Dr.,,Great Falls,MT,59404 3685,No,No,No,Seth G. Cameron,PhD,8014740134,seth@cameronsound.com,Seth G. Cameron,PhD,8014740134,seth@cameronsound.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project focuses on the porting a proprietary voice interface to a low-power wearable platform. A major challenge of this development is the elimination of hardware support for floating point calculations that are not typically included on low-power embedded platforms. This proposal addresses mobility characteristics by focusing the critical issues such as investigation of feasible methods for reducing the complexity of algorithms, and the lack of hardware support for floating point arithmetic on a low-power device as used in embedded applications. This project addresses the development of a novel information management system for the visually impaired. It also has the potential to revolutionize the information management needs for sighted people as well, and address niche applications such as prosthetic devices for 'forgetfulness'. Most importantly, this technology has many useful applications such as assisting people with other types of disabilities besides visual impairment."
An Automated Tool for Deriving FARSITE Canopy Fuel Parameters from Airborne LiDAR Data,2007-33610-18004,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2007,1,79720.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Robert Crabtree,"President, Chief Scientist",4065569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,Robert L. Crabtree,,4065569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,"HyPerspectives proposes to address a serious obstacle to wildfire management by
providing a software solution roadmap for the creation of crown fuel layers for the
FARSITE fire simulator. By doing so we will connect recent advances in LiDAR
technology with an end-user community who is in need of LiDAR-derived fuel data
products. HyPerspectives will draw upon its successful experience in LiDAR software
development, wildfire fuels research, and extensive ground-truth data to validate methods
for extracting fire fuel parameters from LiDAR datasets and to design a software module,
ELF-Forest, that holds a strong potential for commercialization. The ELF-Forest module
will build upon a successful suite of software products for LiDAR processing (ELF-Base)
that HyPerspectives has developed for use within the ENVI/IDL (ENvironment for
Visualizing Imagery/Interactive Data Language) program environment. At the same
time, we will address an issue of national importance: the management of costly and
dangerous wildfires. The proposed work will also capitalize on USDAs investment in
the FARSITE model by providing enhanced crown fuel layers that are FARSITE-ready
and allow for increased accuracy of crown fire simulation. In addition to addressing the
need for canopy fuel parameters, our proposed software has many additional applications
such as monitoring agricultural resources, combating bioterrorism, monitoring energy
sources, and measuring sequestered carbon in vegetation."
Buhl Idaho Ethanol Project: Integrating low value starch feed stocks with energy efficient starch hydrolysis,2007-33610-17952,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2007,1,79884.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford Bradley,Partner,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Robert Kearns,,4065997090,kearns@3rivers.net,"""This renewable energy project will complete the first phase of developing an innovative approach to a commercial ethanol plant in Buhl Idaho. The plant will use barley as a feedstock, supplemented by available sources of low value starch. Barley is the best crop for ethanol production in local agronomic systems and the use of low value and waste materials will significantly reduce feedstock cost. The project will also reduce waste treatment costs for the city of Buhl. Montana Microbial Products will design a process integrating barley and low value starch sources combined with the use of an innovative process developed by the company for enzymatic hydrolysis of raw starch. This process eliminates mash cooking reducing capital and operating costs.
MMP will work with a local group to complete 5 specific tasks: assess local feedstock resources; design the process for hydrolysis and fermentation of mixed feedstocks; assess markets; assess cost benefits to Buhl infrastructure; and estimate economic feasibility. Process development and market assessment will also include analysis of distillers grains for potential use in local dairy feed markets.
Phase 1 research will result in an energy efficient process for utilizing mixed starch feedstocks. Reduced operating costs for feedstock and energy and reduced capital cost from eliminating mash cooking will enable ethanol production at a scale that fits locally available resources and local capacity to finance and own the ethanol plant."""
STTR Phase I: A Comprehensive Fluorescent Tool Set for Live Cell Imaging,0711657,NSF,NSF,STTR,2007,1,149997.00,Montana Molecular LLC,619 N. Church Ave,Unit 4,Bozeman,MT,59715-3087,Yes,No,Yes,Anne M. Quinn,PhD,4065857100,amq@montanamolecular.com,Anne M. Quinn,Ms,4065857100,amq@montanamolecular.com,This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I research project aims to develop new probes for targeting specific cellular compartments. This will be achieved by producing a library of green fluorescent-tagged proteins using a high throughput insertion strategy. Availability of these reagents would be of great value to cell biologists interested in cellular trafficking or other areas that would require the use of compartment-specific markers.
Low-Cost Integrated Valve/Injectors for Bipropellant Thrusters,W9113M-07-C-0170,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,2,749916.00,MONTCORP.,1445 Lakeview Lane,,Whitefish,MT,-,No,No,No,Blaine Wright,Mechanical Engineer/Owner,4068629777,bwright@montcorp.com,Blaine Wright,Mechanical Engineer/Owner,4068629777,bwright@montcorp.com,"The most significant hardware costs on a missile interceptor propulsion system are associated with the thrusters, for which there are typically four divert thrusters and four, six, or eight attitude control thrusters per interceptor. The largest contributor to the thruster cost is the integrated valve/injector. Integration of the valve and injector into a single body provides the benefits of low dribble volume, low weight, and fast response. However, the current designs are subject to serial manufacturing steps, adding to the component's cost and scchedule. A novel concept for the fabricating the injector was proposed by Montcorp for its Phase I program. A full-scale design was demonstrated in the Phase I effort, which represents the first integrated valve/injector concept that allows complete fabrication of the injector faceplate (including orifices and acoustic cavities) before integration with the valve body. This design provides significant cost and schedule savings in the fabrication of the valve/injector. The Phase II program will accomplish continued design, development, and hot-fire testing of multiple integrated valve/injectors using the injector faceplate concept developed in Phase I. Duty cycles from the qualification of a characteristic production thruster will be used."
Ballistic Missile Defense Anti-Tamper Coating Manufacturing,HQ0006-07-C-7763,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Milan Ivosevic,Materials/ Mechanical Engineer,4064975242,milan.ivosevic@resodyn.com,"The implementation of anti-tamper (AT) technology as one vital strategy for preserving US military superiority. (Communique DoD 5200.1-M) In response to this need, many AT technologies have been developed including AT coatings for securing electronic components and devices. However, the use of successful AT coatings is impeded by lack of a manufacturing process that: 1.) Possesses the capacity for utilizing these technologies in a composite coating formulation; and 2.) Can be used to apply coatings to heat-sensitive electronics without adversely affecting their operation or shorten their useful life cycle. A technology and methodology is proposed for development and application of anti-tamper coating processes for substrates that differ greatly in shape, size, topography, and material type. This technological capability includes applying high temperature melting polymers and metals onto heat-sensitive electronic circuits. This technology can be used to create composite coatings of various layers and materials and can fully incorporate materials of various sizes and shapes into the coating. The Phase I research will demonstrate not only the feasibility of the technology, but will demonstrate the broad utility of the coating process. The coatings manufacturing technology, and demonstrated capabilities, will provide the missing manufacturing capability for forming advanced AT coatings."
Zero VOC Coatings for Aircraft Grade Aluminum Alloys,FA8650-07-M-5028,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Prinicpal Investigator,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"The Air Force is actively pursuing a reduction and eventual elimination of the volume of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions generated during aircraft coating operations. Resodyn Corporation proposes the development of the zero VOC (ZCOV) coating system that consists of thermally applied engineered thermoplastics. The enabling technology will be Resodyn Corporation's Low Temperature Powder Coating (LTPSC) process which has the capability of applying low melt temperature polymers without causing thermal degradation. Preliminary testing demonstrates the ability to create adherent coatings while maintaining low temperature exposure to the aluminum alloy substrates. This technology has the potential for use in either aircraft repair, maintenance or manufacturing facilities. The process is environmentally friendly (i.e., VOC free) when creating protective coatings directly from dry powder. The process is intrinsically safe and does not depend on an open flame or flammable gasses."
Corrosion Protection via Novel Hydrophobic Powder Coating,FA8501-07-M-0198,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Milan Ivosevic,Principal Investigator,4064975242,milan.ivosevic@resodyn.com,Resodyn Corporation proposes a super-hydrophobic coating solution mimicking the Lotus leaf effect for corrosion protection of US Air Force support equipment exposed to highly corrosive environment while residing in the Southwest Asia. It is expected that highly hydrophobic coatings will enhance corrosion protection of the equipment by improving moisture barrier properties and preventing corrosive soils from fusing to surface of the AF support equipment. The total coating solution includes: (i) production of hydrophobic composite powder based on polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nano-technology; (ii) Resodyn Corporation's proprietary powder coating technology; and (iii) know-how for applying dense and adherent VOC-free coatings with thicknesses anywhere between 100 microns to 5 mm. Ultra-hydrophobic coatings were produced using micro- and nano-structured surface topologies combined with low energy surface chemistry. Preliminary results indicated that the proposed coating material based on functionalized copolymer matrix alloyed with POSS molecules can exhibit super-hydrophobic properties including a water contact angle of up to 150 degrees and self cleaning characteristics.
Fatigue Enhanced Cold-worked Hole FECH - Analyzer,N68335-07-C-0162,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,2,700000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Steve Galbraith,Prinicpal Investigator,4064975223,sgalbraith@resodyn.com,"The U.S. Navy uses a cold-hole expansion method for increasing the fatigue life of primary aircraft structures at fastener locations. The derived benefit results from compressive stresses concentrated in the metal near the perimeter of the cold worked hole. The objective of this Phase II proposal is to develop portable, light weight, quality assurance tools, based upon Eddy Current technology, that can be used to determine if a hole has been properly cold worked. The proposed products will be hand held, easy to use, and fast. (Analysis time per hole will be approximately 10 seconds) The proposed product will be very cost effective when compared to alternative inspection approaches, e.g., X-Ray Diffraction. The Phase II work will be staged to develop a hole-inspection technology that has increasing levels of quality assessment capabilities: Product 1: Provides a definitive test establishing if a hole has been cold worked. Product 2: Determines if a cold worked hole is within specifications. Prototype Product 3: Maps and images the relative values of stress or strain around a cold worked hole. Products 1 and 2 (one each) will be the deliverables for the proposed Phase II work."
SBIR Phase I: ResonantAcoustic Centrifuge for Platelet Concentrate Preparation,0712588,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Edward M. Davis,PhD,4064975200,ed.davis@resodyn.com,Edward M. Davis,PhD,4064975200,ed.davis@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project aims to develop an improved method for generating platelet concentrates for transfusion that reduces platelet activation. This will be achieved by simultaneously combining mixing and centrifugation to prevent platelet pelleting. The proposed methodology may improve the quality of platelet rich plasma platelet concentrates, improve their storage stability, and potentially enhance medical outcomes for patients receiving platelet transfusions."
SBIR Phase I: Processing of Low-Permeability Polymer Insulating Foam for Use in Extreme Temperature Applications,0638271,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Scott L. Coguill,MME,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,Scott L. Coguill,MME,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to develop a welding technology for joining low permeability polymer insulation (LPPI) foams prior to applying a composite overwrap. The syntactic foam is flexible over a wide range of operating temperatures, and provides a useful combination of thermal protection, low hydrogen permeability, and compressive strength. The major steps for the proposed in-situ welding process consist of (i) using pre-formed strips of uncured LPPI as feedstock, (ii) developing the means for preheating the tapered joint between the pre-molded LPPI sheets, (iii) developing the means and method for preheating the LPPI feedstock, and (iv) developing the means and method for melting and curing the LPPI weld. The proposed technology will enable the fabrication of large-scale cryogenic tanks for hydrogen storage and aerospace applications. In addition, the technology has the potential to reduce microcracks in the composite due to thermal cycling from cryogenic to elevated temperatures."
SBIR Phase II: Development of a BioAcoustic Mixing Platform,0646562,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,2,500000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Todd A. McAdams,PhD,4064975200,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. McAdams,PhD,4064975200,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II research project develops a mixer based on sound waves applicable for use in bioreactors for cell culturing and fermentors. Cell culturing and fermentation are large markets where significant growth is forecast over the next several years. This research will establish the optimal design and operating conditions for this non-invasive and non-destructive mixing technology. It is anticipated that performance for many applications can be enhanced by 50% or greater over state-of-the-art technology using this novel agitation technology. The broader impact will be to reduce the costs of pharmaceutical production, when such production is based on biological feedstocks. Media and process development for biological production of pharmaceuticals is costly and time-intensive and performed using stirred-tank bioreactors due to the limitations of orbital shake-flask and cell culture flasks. A mixing technology that could unify laboratory-scale and pilot-scale experiments would be highly valuable in speeding the pace of
process development. Low-frequency acoustic energy will dramatically enhance gas-liquid mass transport without increasing hydrodynamic shear stress. The research project will enhance the scientific understanding of low frequency acoustic mixing processes by quantifying the impact of acoustic frequency on oxygen transfer rates and cellular growth. The significance to society that the successful development is a dramatic increase in the pace of biotechnological process development. This will lead to more rapid commercialization of and lower prices for pharmaceutical products that enhance overall quality of life."
STTR Phase II: A New Hyperspectral Imaging Spectrometer,0620581,NSF,NSF,STTR,2007,2,499998.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Rand Swnson,Dr,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,Dr,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II research project develops a macroscopic fluorescent scanner that utilizes hyperspectral imaging with enhanced capability for reading microarrays, multiwell plates, and two dimensional (2D) gels. The system utilizes novel optical design to provide more efficient light gathering and less aberration for better imaging versus conventional hyperspectral optical designs. The anticipated technical benefits include improved signal-to-noise (greater sensitivity) and the better dye multiplexing (enabling the use of multiple dyes to detect of multiple analytes simultaneously).The broader impact of this research will be to enable more rapid advancement of scientific discovery by providing enhanced tools for study of the complexity of biological signaling, metabolic and response networks using non-radioactive optical detection methods to improve safety and reduce waste problems with optical detection."
SBIR Phase I: Monolithic Imaging Spectrometer,0712506,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,99999.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Rand K. Swanson,PhD,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,Rand K. Swanson,PhD,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will assess the viability of an imaging spectrometer based on a novel monolithic anamorphic design. This approach will reduce part count and assembly costs while maintaining excellent performance and stability, thereby providing a fundamental value advantage over existing technology. Optical and mechanical modeling will be performed to determine component tolerance requirements and the trade space between performance and cost. Additionally, key questions on the proposed design and lithographic fabrication will be addressed with well-defined proof-of-concept experiments. Performance requirements will be guided by the needs of two potential end users who have indicated a strong interest in the technology. The technology developed under this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will help expand the application of spectral imaging to new areas for which it is currently not cost effective. The proposed technology will provide detailed spectral and spatial information. A primary target application will be color measurement, which will benefit from the additional spectral information for more accurate color measurements. Other possible markets include the traditional machine vision market, which can leverage existing expertise using spatial information, and the low-cost spectrometer market, which can leverage expertise in using spectral information. The color measurement, machine vision, and low-cost spectrometer markets are all substantially larger than the current spectral imaging market and provide a large potential commercial market. Potential societal impacts include improved quality control of raw materials, food, and finished products, and improved sorting of wastes. Because the proposed monolithic anamorphic spectral imaging system can readily be engineered to meet a wide range of cost and performance requirements, scientists will be able to explore new applications for spectral imaging."
Packaging and signal transfer hardware for cryogenically cooled RF receivers,N00039-08-C-0019,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,69978.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian Merkel,President,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Luke Mauritsen,Lead Mechanical Engineering,4069220334,mauritsen@s2corporation.com,"While cryogenics is an enabling component for many new technologies, the integration of components into cryocoolers is fraught with challenges that hinder system deployment and technology advancement. We propose an cryogenic packaging approach based on experience and novel concepts to provide vibration isolation, thermal stability, interfaces for signal transfer hardware (either RF or optical, or both), and connectivity to a variety of commercial 4K cryocoolers. The devices can be integrated into 19"" rack mounts for both the 4K cryocooler and compressor, with reliable, convenient and efficient connections to temperature stages. During Phase I we plan to design and demonstrate the predicted performance. In Phase II we plan to build and test a prototype version of the systems."
Shipboard Wideband Collection Systems Using an S2-material based Receiver,N00039-07-C-0125,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,67449.00,S2 Corporation,2310 University Way,Building 4-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-,No,No,No,Kristian D. Merkel,President,4069220334,merkel@s2corporation.com,Randy Reibel,Director of Research,4069220334,reibel@s2corporation.com,"We propose to design a prototype device to achieve wideband spectral monitoring and direction finding device for 2-4 GHz and 8-12 GHz coverage, simultaneously, based on spectrally selective optical sensor materials. This technology allows for the direct and continuous collection of spectral information from multiple antenna platforms for shipboard and other surveillance applications ."
SBIR Phase I: Online Chapter Marketplace for Biology Learning Materials,0637587,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,1,99850.00,SimBiotic Software,"1280 S. 3rd, Second Floor",,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,Eli N. Meir,PhD,6172852583,meir@simbio.com,Eli N. Meir,PhD,6172852583,meir@simbio.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I research project implements a replacement for the reading materials currently used by most undergraduate students in biology. The replacement will combine smaller reading sections with more active learning components such as simulated experiments. The system will be open to contributions from a wide variety of authors and professionals. Textbooks are currently used in most college biology classes to present material to students, but the learning through textbooks occurs primarily through memorization. This research project will explore new ways of making the take-home assignments of biology students more active, without losing the content needed for understanding biological systems. This research project has the potential to transform one of the pillars of science education, the textbook, from a passive reading instrument to an active learning tool. This could improve learning for the at least one million students per year that take college level biology classes each year in the U.S., and eventually could help improve learning across the sciences."
"Novel Use of Plant Tissue Culture for Site-adapted, Acid Soil, Heavy Metal Tolerant, Native Plants Useful for Mine Land Revegetation.",2007-33610-17997,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2007,1,80000.00,"SMK PLANTS, LLC",5477 GENE SARAZEN DR,,Billings,MT,59106-1143,Yes,No,No,Michael G. King,Owner,4066904996,mike@smkplants.com,Sandra M. King,,4066528468,sandy@smkplants.com,"There is a need for native plants tolerant of low soil pH and elevated heavy metal
concentrations to revegetate acid mine land in the Rocky Mountain west. Acid/ heavy
metal tolerant (AHMT) plants are necessary because of the immense area of acid mine
land that needs reclamation. Mining wastes have contaminated 3,346 miles of rivers in
six Western states, including 1,118 in Montana. It will cost billions of dollars reclaim
these lands. Some researchers have experimented with using plant seed collected from
such sites as a way to produce AHMT locally-adapted native plants. However, many
native plants are difficult to propagate by seed for a variety of reasons. Vegetative
production also is not successful for many species. Plant tissue culture is a way to solve
these problems, but none of the most desired native species has been cultured before, and
none which are AHMT. This proposal describes research to develop AHMT plants using
plant tissue culture for mine site revegetation. SMK Plants will collect native plant
material from AHM sites and initiate them into sterile culture. We will attain commercial
shoot multiplication and rooting rates. If we attain such rates, we will be able to provide
cost competitive AHMT plants which can be used for mine land revegetation.
Revegetation of degraded mined land will benefit society by reducing wind and water
erosion from these lands in turn reducing toxic materials in the air we breathe and the
water we drink. It will improve wildlife habitat, and benefit threatened/endangered
species."
Automated Feature Extraction from Hyperspectral Imagery,NNS07AA10C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,2,600000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,James S. Blundell,CEO,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,Stuart L. Blundell,Principal Investigator,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"The proposed activities will result in the development of a novel hyperspectral feature-extraction toolkit that will provide a simple, automated, and accurate approach to materials classification from hyperspectral imagery (HSI). The proposed toolkit will be built as an extension to the state-of-the-art technology in automated feature extraction (AFE), the Feature Analyst software suite, which was developed by the proposing company. Feature Analyst uses, along with spectral information, feature characteristics such as spatial association, size, shape, texture, pattern, and shadow in its generic AFE process. Incorporating the best AFE approach (Feature Analyst) with the best HSI techniques promises to greatly increase the usefulness and applicability of HSI. While current HSI techniques, such as spectral end-member classification, can provide effective materials classification, these methods are slow (or manual), cumbersome, complex for analysts, and are limited to materials classification only. Feature Analyst, on the other hand, has a simple workflow of (a) an analyst providing a few examples, and (b) an advanced software agent classifying the rest of the imagery. This simple yet powerful approach will become the new paradigm for HSI materials classification since Phase I experiments show it is (a) accurate, (b) simple, (c) advanced, and (d) exists as workflow extension to market leading products. The deliverables of this proposal will allow HSI products to be fully exploited for the first time by a wide range of users."
A Lower-cost System for Wind Power Generation on Individual Farms and Ranches,2007-33610-17991,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2007,1,80000.00,"WIND INNOVATIONS, LLC",502 S 6TH AVE,,Bozeman,MT,59715-4564,No,No,No,Will Swearingen,Vice President and COO,4066401560,wds@montana.edu,David Morris,,2126336110,dcmorris@ltgspeed.com,"There is potential for a vast expansion of wind-power production in rural America. The key
is development of affordable, cost-effective systems. The major barrier to wind-power
generation on farms and ranches is the current high cost of wind turbines. Wind Innovations
proposes an entirely new approach that promises to substantially reduce the cost of wind-power
systems. Preliminary results indicate that this new system, called the Wind Fin, can eliminate
current environmental objections to small wind-power systems while costing significantly less.
Researchers will evaluate and test the technical feasibility of a Wind Fin design for farm and
ranch use that will sell for 50 percent less than state-of-the-art commercial wind turbines of equivalent
size-with equal or superior performance. They will conduct an end-user survey of farmers and
ranchers to determine acceptability criteria for the Wind Fin, design a 1kW prototype, model its
performance characteristics and manufacturing costs, and compare these to leading commercial
1kW wind turbines. The Wind Innovations team includes highly qualified market-research,
mechanical/electrical-design, wind-power, manufacturing, and cost-modeling expertise. Using
the Wind Fin, farms and ranches could not only supply their own energy needs but also harvest
enough wind energy to sell to utilities, fostering rural development."
Concept of Operations Storyboarding Tool,NNJ07JA21C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,2,542226.00,"S&K Technologies, Inc.","56 Old Highway 93 North, Box 339",,St. Ignatius,MT,59865-0339,No,Yes,No,Arthur B. Molin,Program Manager,2816365592,amolin@sktcorp.com,Carroll H. Thronesbery,Principal Investigator,2814801453,carroll.g.thronesbery@nasa.gov,"The purpose of this project is to develop a storyboard tool to assist with the generation, verification, and refinement of storyboard information and its subsequent translation into model data for systems analysis and design tools. The most important contribution is an improved communication of the concept of operation between prospective customers and system developers. It addresses the difficulty of communicating highly technical information among specialized engineering groups so that the concept of operations illustrated by the storyboard accommodates the consideration of context of use, user task performance, and effective application of new technologies. This difficulty is especially pronounced when the user's tasks are unusual (space operations) and the technology to support the task is novel (autonomous software with which humans interact and monitor). Communication is enhanced by focusing on the common language of storyboard sketches and related categories of information describing them. The storyboard tool will help authors manage versions of storyboards to track alternate approaches for human task support and to maintain libraries of storyboards from previous systems. After assisting with the creation of storyboards and refining them in concurrent engineering sessions, the tool will assist in translating the storyboard information into data forms importable by analysis tools used by NASA systems engineers."
"Monolithic, High-Speed Fiber-Optic Switching Array for Lidar",NNG06CA01C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,2,599600.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Vice President,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Principal Investigator,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This NASA SBIR Phase II effort will develop a 1 x 10 prototype non-mechanical fiber optic switch for use with high power lasers. The proposed optical device is a fiber-based multi-channel switch to rapidly switch a fiber-coupled laser among ten output channels as an integral part of a fiber-based fixed-array laser transmitter for next-generation NASA lidar systems. The key innovation is the use of an arrangement of electro-optic prisms in a nonlinear optical crystal created through domain reversal to direct the laser into one of many possible output fibers. This design will provide several important features that are required yet not currently available in a fiber switch in order to achieve a fiber-arrayed lidar source. These features include high optical power handling, reduced crosstalk, low optical loss, fast switching times, low power consumption, and robust construction in a monolithic package with no moving parts. A packaged device will undergo preliminary flight qualification testing and reliability analysis. The Phase II effort will deliver a compact, packaged 1x10 electro-optic fiber switch that meets specifications and is ready for testing in a NASA all-fiber lidar system."
High Power Electro-Optic Modulator for Space-Based Applications,NNG06LA45C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,1,69745.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Business Official,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Christopher Palassis,Principal Investigator,4065220388,palassis@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I effort will establish the feasibility of developing a fiber coupled, high power, electro-optically controlled, space qualified, phase modulator for the NASA Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). Specific to the LISA project is the use of three spacecraft, spanned by vast distances, to make gravitational wave measurements. A central aspect in maintaining system performance is inter-spacecraft communications which require the use of frequency modulated, high power 1.06 mm light. AdvR's proposed approach offers phase modulation of a high power continuous wave 1.06mm laser signal with modulation capability of 1.9 to 2.1 GHz and 10% modulation depth. The key innovation is the use of a waveguide embedded in a non-linear optical material suitable for high optical power handling combined with patented micro-electrode technology for high speed modulation. To operate properly in space, the phase modulators used for LISA must be rugged to survive the journey to space and must perform optimally in a radiation environment. To achieve this goal, the proposed phase modulator development will include a fiber-in-fiber-out design that meets the space qualification requirements for mechanical stability of the package and radiation damage resistance of the non-linear optical material."
Marketing Assessment of Indian Ricegrass as a Gluten-Free Flour and in Baked Finished Goods,2006-33610-16797,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2006,1,79587.00,Amazing Grains Grower Cooperative,405 Main SW,,Ronan,MT,59864,No,No,No,Tim Anderson,CEO/Chairman of the Board,4069953322,timanderson@amazinggrains.com,Fraser McLeay,General Manager,4066763536,frasermcleay@amazinggrains.com,"Through the proposed USDA-SBIR Phase I Marketing and Trade project, market expansion and diversification opportunities will be explored for the Amazing Grains Grower Cooperative and their trademarked MontinaTM products. MontinaTM products are formulated from the gluten-free grain Indian ricegrass. The expanding demand for gluten-free/wheat-free products, largely by the growing population of individuals diagnosed with celiac disease, is central to the business expansion and diversification goals of Amazing Grains. The new market opportunities to be explored for MontinaTM products include the growing body of consumers seeking gluten-free/wheat-free alternatives, bulk sales to food processors or baked good manufacturers and further value-added, finished goods manufacturing by Amazing Grains itself as it explores the viability of adding products such as gluten-free breads, cookies, and cereals to its product inventory. In order to carry out this market research effectively, Amazing Grains will work with experts in food science, nutrition, agricultural economics and food marketing research in order to fully characterize the nutrient composition, baking characteristics and consumer evaluation of their various products. Ultimately, Amazing Grains will enhance their knowledge of strategies for market entry and advancement of market share in the growing food industry sector of gluten-free products."
"Low-Power, Lightweight Cloud Water Content Sensor",NNG06CA04C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,2,590335.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"The measurement of cloud water content is of great importance in understanding the formation of clouds, their structure, and their radiative properties which in turn affect the climate. While a variety of sensors exist for making these measurements, all of the existing sensors require far too much power or other energy input to be used on small platforms with limited payloads such as UAVs, balloons, and kites. Anasphere has, in Phase I work, clearly demonstrated the feasibility of an entirely new technique for the in-situ measurement of cloud water content. The new sensor is lightweight (under 40 g), consumes very little power (the sensor can run for days on one 9-volt battery), and is very inexpensive.Phase II work will focus on refining the sensor design from both mechanical and electronic perspectives, completing extensive laboratory and field tests of the improved sensors, and delivering several examples to NASA. Two sequential cycles of design improvement, laboratory testing, and flight testing are envisioned. Samples of the sensors will be sent to NASA as part of each flight testing cycle. The Phase II effort will culminate in the availability of a simple and inexpensive cloud water content sensor for cloud research. This sensor will be very useful to scientists studying cloud formation and structure. It will enable such scientists to inexpensively obtain in-situ data that previously was obtained only through the use of an expensive research aircraft flying thro"
Sensing of Upper Atmosphere,FA8718-06-C-0030,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2006,1,99920.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Accurate observations and forecasts of meteorological conditions in the battlespace are of extreme importance to the most effective employment of military assets. In many instances, it is not possible to gather in-situ meteorological data by routine means such as sounding balloons carrying radiosondes. There is a need to provide a means by which such data may be gathered with the requisite accuracy and density even over denied or hostile territory; it is also desirable to obtain such measurements in the most covert manner possible. Anasphere proposes to develop a phenomenally cost-effective and simple means of achieving this goal while maximizing use of existing infrastructure and capabilities. Most importantly, the proposed method will employ existing, proven radiosondes and existing radiosonde receivers, thus maximizing use of existing training procedures and infrastructure and minimizing the capital cost to implement the system. In Phase I, a proof-of-concept system will be designed, fabricated, and demonstrated. A follow-on system will be defined that builds on the demonstrated Phase I system and implements extensive communication and hardware upgrades. Phase II would see fabrication and field demonstration of the upgraded design."
Pneumatic Conveyance Technology for Native Seed Harvesters,2006-33610-17326,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2006,2,296000.00,"Arbuckle Ranch, Inc.","100 Poly Drive, Suite 155",,Billings,MT,59101,No,No,No,Maggie Arbuckle,Treasurer/Secretary,4066572995,arbuckle@bresnan.net,Lee Arbuckle,President,4062942995,arbuckle@bresnan.net,"Native grass seed is important to restoration or reclamation of burned, mined or otherwise disturbed lands. The native seed industry is growing rapidly to meet increasing demand for more seed species in commercial quantities. However, the morphology of the seed of many important species of native grasses makes them difficult to harvest resulting in limited supplies and high prices. Combines and other conventional harvesters such as strippers are often unable to effectively carry out one or more of the key steps of harvest: 1) dislodgement, 2) separation, 3) conveyance, and 4) offloading. This creates an opportunity for new devices such as the pneumatic conveyance system on the Arbuckle Native Seedster that improve seed handling efficiency and overall productivity. The Arbuckle Native Seedster patented technology achieves a high level of seed recovery by plucking seed with almost no impurities thus simultaneously carrying out the first two steps-dislodgement and separation. This makes development of an effective system to convey and off-load harvested seed crucial to development of a high productivity continuous flow native grass seed harvester. The premise of the PCS is that the increased seed flow is most effectively handled by a system of pneumatic conveyance that seamlessly engages dislodged native grass seed in flight and conveys it to a bag. This is because many species of native grass seed have seed morphology that often coheres and clogs if it comes to a stop. Pickup velocity of air flow is several times the saltation velocity that moves seed already in flight."
NANOSTRUCTURED THERMAL BARRIER COATING BASED ON FILTERED ARC PLASMA SOURCE ION DEPOSITION,W31P4Q-07-C-0057,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2006,1,93641.00,"ARCOMAC SURFACE ENGINEERING, LLC",6575 Butler Creek Road,,Missoula,MT,59808 8656,No,No,No,Fred Heckerman,V.P. for Operations,4065417455,fheckerman@arcomac.com,Vladimir Gorokhovsky,Research Director,4065227620,vgorokhovsky@arcomac.com,"In an attempt to extend turbine engine on-wing time, thermal barrier coatings (TBC) using various application techniques have been developed. High temperatures corrosion due to penetration of chemically active species along the columnar grains of the topcoat limits the durability of TBCs. This results in degradation of the topcoat thermal insulation ceramic layer and accelerated oxidation of the bondcoat. Using our patented Filtered Arc Plasma Source Ion Deposition (FAPSID) technology, graded nanocomposite transition layers will be deposited between TBC bondcoat and topcoat, and nanostructured topcoats to slow high temperature oxidation of the bondcoat and reduce corrosion of the topcoat resulting in improvement of TBC service life in military engine operating environment . The base superalloy will be a CMSX-4 single crystal. The bondcoat will be a Pt-Hf aluminized system. Several FAPSID nanocomposite coatings, simulating the entire TBC stack architecture will be deposited and their evolution examined in thermal cyclic conditions. These coatings will be evaluated as a system with respect to interactions between adjacent layers. In Phase II the full scale TBC coating architecture will be deposited by FAPSID process, including deposition of nanostructured bond coat. This coating will be evaluated in simulated TBC operation with JP8 fuel."
Protective Coating for Large-Diameter Bearing Races,FA8650-06-M-5040,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2006,1,99310.00,"ARCOMAC SURFACE ENGINEERING, LLC",6575 Butler Creek Road,,Missoula,MT,59808 8656,No,No,No,Fred Heckerman,VP of Operations,4065417455,fheckerman@arcomac.com,Vladimir Gorokhovsky,Director of Research,4065227620,VIGASE@aol.com,"Critical large bearings in the F-35 thrust vector system must operate with absolute reliability under high loads, high heat and corrosive attack from salt air and fluorinated lubricant at elevated temperatures. A unique patented Filtered Arc Plasma Source Ion Deposition (FAPSID) process developed by Arcomac Surface Engineering will deposit an atomically bonded, multiple layered, integrated coating combining different metal and ceramic materials, each with specialized properties that improve both wear and corrosion resistance. This will further increase vector bearing performance, extend component life and reduce life cycle cost. Bearing components with optimized multiplex coating(s) will be rigorously evaluated for their durability and reliability under aggressive test conditions. The FAPSID process is scalable to produce production coatings on the large diameter bearing races in the F35 thrust vectoring system. These coatings have an enormous potential application to a wide range of military and civilian aircraft engine components that operate in severe wear and corrosive conditions."
Phase II: EcoSod An Alternative Native Sod Solution for Highway Construction,DTRT5706C10017,DOT,DOT,SBIR,2006,2,724130.00,Bitterroot Restoration Inc.,445 Quest Lane,,Corvallis,MT,59828,No,No,No,Denise Laussade,Chief Financial Officer,4069614991,,Tim W. Meikle,Director of R&D,4069614991,,"The Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act requires the use of native grasses and wildflowers within highway corridors. A major problem for the revegetation industry has been the ability to predictably establish native vegetation from seed. The production of native sods would allow for the most sensitive period of establishment-germination and initial seedling growth-to be bypassed in order to meet FHWA requirements for erosion control and weed suppression. Traditional sod production techniques, however, are geographically limited, environmentally problematic, and may act as a vector for the introduction of weed species. Bitterroot Restoration Inc., proposes to develop ""EcoSod"", a lighweight, highly transportable native sod designed for short duration growing cycles. EcoSod will be constructed from weed-free geotextiles, which increase the transportablity of materials and field survival of installed sods. Phase II research will result in: 1) establishment of field trails in Washington, California, and Wyoming; 2) development of propagation protocols for regional facilities; and 3) substantial cost and weight reductions from Phase I prototype."
A Process to Produce High-Purity Encapsulated Particulates in Large Quantities,W911QX-07-C-0024,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2006,1,69960.00,"FEDERAL TECHNOLOGY GROUP, INC.",Enterprise Professional Center,235 S. Enterprise Blvd,Bozeman,MT,59718 6062,No,No,No,Todd G. Johnson,Executive Director,4065862997,toddjohnson@fedtechgroup.com,Pay Yih,MCP Technology Director,2166881556,payyih@fedtechgroup.com,"This is a proposal to research new methods of coating small particles using a water-based electroplating process. These methods would build upon existing technology, in which small particulates are placed into a metallic-ion-containing electrolyte solution inside an electroplating device. The particulates are repeatedly stirred, allowing sedimentation to occur by gravity until a sedimentation layer of loosely contacted particles is formed on the cathode plate. An electric current is created from the electromotive potential that exists across the anode and cathode plates. The stirring, sedimentation and electroplating processes are performed in sequence. Electroplating is interrupted during the stirring and seminentation steps, and stirring immediately follows electroplating."
Recognizing Target Variants Using Transformational Adaptivity,FA8650-06-C-1014,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2006,2,749989.00,GENERAL INTELLIGENCE CORP.,PO Box 7380,,Bozeman,MT,59771,No,No,No,David W. Arathorn,Pres,4065821884,dwa@giclab.com,David W. Arathorn,Pres,4065821884,dwa@giclab.com,"Target variation presents a challenge for Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) based on fixed models or signatures. In Phase I General Intelligence refined and applied an extension of the map-seeking circuit (MSC) architecture to recognize articulations, plausible morphs and aggregations of target models. The extended MSC architecture implements a process termed ""transformational adaptivity,"" building on MSC's capability in recognizing 3D targets from any viewpoint, tolerating clutter and distractors anywhere in the field of view including near the target, up to a substantial degree of occlusion. In Phase II GIC proposes to further extend the capability developed in Phase I to include potentially weapon-bearing targets of signficantly greater articulation and variation of surface form. While the mechanism refined in Phase I is tied to a particular kinematic model, the mechanism to be developed in Phase II, like human visual cognition, is extensible to far more complex configurations. In addition, a pre-processing stage will be developed to handle relative scene-camera motion and adaptively handle a much wider variety of input image conditions. A parallel objective of Phase II is to develop the image registration capability of MSC (which is the basis of handling relative scene-camera motion) for AFRL and GIC applications."
"Camelina Sativa, Launching a New Oilseed Crop, Could Gold of Pleasure be Montana's Soybean?",2006-33610-17597,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2006,2,296000.00,Great Northern Growers Cooperative,"1 Railroad Avenue, Box 99",,Sunburst,MT,59482,No,No,No,Mike Wallewein,Financial Director,4069372775,wallywld@northerntel.net,Gary Iverson,Operations and Agronomy Manager,4069374000,giverson@greatnortherngrowers.com,"Montana producers have long needed a broadleaf crop which will grow in all areas of Montana to provide a beneficial crop rotation. Gold of pleasure is that crop. High protein OmegaMeal(TM) will have a major impact on Montana agricultural income, by providing a quality protein source to supplement Montana barley and distillers grains, encouraging livestock feeding in Montana. Camelina oil can be refined into an economical biodiesel or utilized in omega3 health food, cosmetics and animal feeds. Wax esters, mucilage, tocopherol, glucosinolate, super omega3, offer interesting industrial and nutraceutical uses. The overall objective SBIR project is to develop a highly sustainable crop (camelina) that can be produced and processed in Montana, provides a fair return to growers, and promotes economic development through manufacture and refining of value-added products and biofuels. In Montana, net wheat income averages $23.50/acre and does not offer potential for added farmgate value. Revenue from a single acre of processed camelina (1500 lbs/acre) could generate between $150-300 net revenue. GNG has a goal to produce a million acres of camelina generating over $150 million in grower revenue. Value added processing will further increase net revenue to Montana industry."
LiDAR and Hyperspectral Fusion for Landslide Hazard Detection,NNC06CB49C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,1,68987.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Robert Crabtree,Business Official,4065569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,Robert Crabtree,Principal Investigator,4065569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,"HyPerspectives, Inc. and its researchers propose to use remote sensing technologies to answer specific scientific questions for researchers and decision-makers in the natural hazards community. We will employ both current and innovative data fusion techniques to fill key deficiency gaps limiting progress in the natural hazards discipline. By fusing high-resolution hyperspectral imagery and LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) data sets from the 2003 Yellowstone Optical and SAR Ground Imaging (YOGI) data collect, we will substantially improve methodologies for natural hazard decision support systems. This imagery fusion is considered innovative because it will further refine the identification and mapping of past events, such as landslides, while also providing quicker and simpler processes for forecasting and mitigating future hazards. Furthermore, the algorithms developed in Phase 2 will satisfy the needs of decision makers by including tools for fault detection, deformation, and geothermal monitoring. The proposed study is directly relevant to the NASA SBIR S7.01 solicitation because we will create automated tools utilizing innovative algorithms to speed up the processing of data that has known relevance to natural hazard planners and researchers. To achieve this, we will build on successful landslide detection techniques and incorporate new algorithms previously developed by HyPerspectives scientists."
SBIR Phase I: Fire Information from REmote-sensing and Weather-models Integrated and Supplied to End-users (FIREWISE),0611334,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2006,1,96272.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Robert Crabtree,Dr,4055569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,Robert Crabtree,Dr,4055569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project will demonstrate feasibility for an innovative, interactive software product that will improve the Nation's fire fighting, prevention, and restoration capabilities. The product uniquely combines remotely sensed NASA data with a leading-edge weather model, delivers the resulting data to decision makers visually via the Internet, and creates previously unavailable data sets for use by existing fire simulation software. The FIREWISE project will develop a system that combines two components critically needed by the public and private fire fighting sector: (1) NASA Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) active fire data products, and (2) Mesoscale Model 5 (MM5) weather predictions. Additionally the model which will include digital elevation models (DEMs), and near-realtime satellite imagery, will accommodate additional inputs such as vegetation and fuel type maps, existing geographic information system (GIS) data layers (e.g., roads, waterways, ownership. FIREWISE, marketed as a subscription web service, will allow users to select spatially and temporally appropriate data from archival and/or daily-refreshed data sources and visualize them graphically in 3-D with animation capability, allowing end-users to follow dynamic factors such as weather and fire spread through time. Additionally, FIREWISE will output data for ready ingest into existing predictive fire models such as FARSITE, a fire behavior and growth simulator mandated for use across the US Forest Service and US Department of Interior agencies. Three factors have combined to make fire risk a national priority: (1) global warming; (2) past management of fires; and (3) increasing development of the urban/wildland interface. Improved predictions of wildfire behavior have concomitantly become increasingly important to protect life and property. This proposed project will combine MODIS and MM5 data, and demonstrate feasibility for both visualizing and manipulating those data via the Internet and serving them to existing fire models and other end-users. The innovations include: (1) Visualization - by draping geospatial and weather data over DEMs, FIREWISE will provide 3-D visualization of fire hazards or in-progress fires, far superior to single layer, static GIS representations. (2) Data integration - FIREWISE will uniquely combine MODIS remotely sensed optical data with MM5 atmospheric model output to create new data products to predict fire hazards. (3) Data access and delivery - FIREWISE will provide fire decision makers unprecedented Internet-based access to the critical dynamic fire information. FIREWISE will improve the Nation's fire fighting abilities by enabling the rapid, data-driven decision making necessary to saving lives, property, and natural resources. FIREWISE will also enable educational and distance learning programs by making visualizations available on-line. Additionally, Native American student interns will be included in the FIREWISE development team."
Microbial Enhancement of Flax Seed to Replace Fish Oil in Salmonid Diets,DG133R06CN0208,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2006,2,199032.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford Bradley,Founding Member,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford Bradley,Founding Member,4965441176,cbradley@montana.com,"In Phase I, MMP combined strain selection with the company┐s innovative technology for solid substrate culture of fungi to develop a process for treating whole flax seed; creating bioenhanced flax seed nutritionally suitable for direct use as a replacement for fish oil in aquaculture feeds. This process reduced fiber content of flax seed by up to 80%, increased protein concentration from 20 to 26% and increased total content oil from 25% up to as much as 45%. Of the total oil, 55% to 57% is the omega 3 fatty acid, linolenic acid. The process also eliminated the mucilage that causes the feeding deterrent effects of flax. In Phase II, MMP will advance commercialization by completing a work plan with three principal components, pilot scale up of the solid substrate culture process, trout feeding trials and selection of a fungus to enhance flax oil with EPA and DHA, long chain C20 and C22 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Objectives are to generate manufacturing design and cost estimates, establish value of bioEnhanced flax seed in trout feeds and develop the basis for nutritionally complete plant derived oil to replace fish oil in trout feeds."
"Low Cost, High Performance Liquid Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS)",W9113M-06-C-0034,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2006,1,99804.00,MONTCORP.,1445 Lakeview Lane,,Whitefish,MT,-,No,No,No,Blaine Wright,President/Mechanical Engineer,4068629777,bwright@montcorp.com,Blaine Wright,President/Mechanical Engineer,4068629777,bwright@montcorp.com,"The most significant hardware costs on a missile interceptor propulsion system are associated with the thrusters, for which there are typically four divert thrusters and four, six, or eight attitude control thrusters per interceptor. Reducing the cost of the valve/injector for the bipropellant thrusters will result in a significant reduction of the interceptor propulsion system. Current high-performance divert and attitude control thrusters have integrated valve/injectors, which currently have long lead-times and high cost because of the serial manufacturing steps inherent with the valve and injector sharing a common body. Cost reduction of the valve/injector can be accomplished through design without sacrificing thruster performance. While maintaining the benefits of the integrated valve/injector, a study is proposed to design, build, and test hardware where the valve body and injector face are fabricated in parallel. The integration of the injector to the valve will occur after the valve and injector bodies have completed their individual fabrication steps, including drilling the injector orifices. In addition to the cost savings afforded by the parallel manufacturing steps, this design will allow laser-drilling of the injector orifices, which will reduce injector drilling times significantly."
SBIR Phase II: Powder-Powder Mixing and Powder-Liquid Mixing by a Novel High-Intensity Vibrational Mixer,0548753,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2006,2,422987.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Dr,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Joel Pierce,Mr,4067232222,jpierce@resody.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will enable the development of a high intensity, low frequency resonant-acoustic mixer for industrial uses, focusing on the incorporation of solid powders into liquids. Since there are no mixing blades or moving parts, issues of clean up and cross-contamination are minimized. The work will expand the scientific understanding of powder-liquid mixing in a high intensity resonant acoustic field, and provide an alternative mixing approach for emerging nano-sized materials. Outcomes of the work will be a deeper understanding of the powder mixing phenomenon and a knowledge base for the design and optimization of complete industrial mixing systems."
SBIR Phase I: Synthesis of New Ionomer Resins Based on Polycyclopentadiene Monomers,0611360,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2006,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Dr,4067232222,lcfarrar@rosodyn.com,Manfred Biermann,Dr,4064975252,jberger@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on the synthesis of a novel set of proprietary ionomeric polymeric materials. Through the use of established techniques (Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization), a series of copolymers that contain a physical and a chemical crosslink will be developed lending a unique level of toughness and impact resistance to the final material. This technology will expand into the areas of ballistic and blast mitigation materials, safer sporting equipment, seals used in defense and chemical processing applications, and self-healing coatings. The potential for these materials to supplant existing commercially available materials will increase with the incorporation of more and greater varieties of functionality in addition to the current technological innovation. By adding a variety of functionalities that compliment the backbone polymer, a versatile and wide-ranging material will result in a significant number of industrial applications."
A Heliportable Sonic Drilling Platform for Microhole Drilling and Exploration,DE-FG02-06ER84618,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2006,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Mr.,4064975252,LCFarrar@resodyn.com,Richard Williams,Mr.,4064975228,rwilliams@resodyn.com,"The exploration and development of new energy resources in remote and environmentally sensitive areas can benefit greatly from a reduction in the size of the associated equipment and operations. This project will develop reliable, small-footprint instrumentation-deployment systems that can operate at lower costs and in environmentally sensitive areas not accessible to conventional drilling systems. The approach will combine sonic drilling with an advanced control technology, in order to enable the development of a helicopter-portable, sonic, microhole drilling system capable of deploying seismic instrumentation to depths of 1500 feet. Phase I will establish the instrumentation and methodology (algorithms and software) to automatically maintain resonant drilling (for maximum efficiency) throughout the process. Modular design features will be included to allow the system to be helicopter transportable and field assembled at remote sites. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The development of an environmentally-friendly, microhole drilling system, capable of being deployed to remote locations, should be of a great benefit to geophysical exploration, placement of geoprobes, etc. Another likely application involves the monitoring of carbon injection and long-term CO2 storage in carbon-sequestration systems, which also may utilize microhole wells. The advanced instrumentation and control technology also should have ""retrofit"" application to existing sonic drilling systems related to environmental sampling, water wells, minerals exploration, etc."
No-Bake Powder Coating for Shipbuilding Applications,N65538-06-M-0175,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2006,1,69999.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,"The U.S. Navy desires a ship painting procedure that produces powder coating quality without the requirement of putting the whole ship in an oven Resodyn Corporation proposes an innovative no-bake powder coating process that uses thermal spray techniques to melt and cure polymer powders onto large structures without the need of a curing oven. Related development work and preliminary design indicate a high potential for success. Resodyn Corporation's proposed design depends on precise heat management at various stages of the process resulting in independently controlled heating of the polymer and the substrate. This prevents polymer degradation and overheating of the substrate. The Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of the process by applying common aeronautical coatings on aluminum substrates.BENEFITS: By increasing the use of a solventless powder coating practices, such as the one proposed by Resodyn Corporation, the U.S. Navy can make a significant contribution to the modernization goals of the second and third-tiered U.S. shipbuilding shipyards. There are also substantial economic benefits relating to decreased manpower needs when comparing the powder coating process to wet painting. These benefits are applicable across all services in the military where vehicle painting now occurs, including planes, trucks, tanks and water craft. Resodyn Corporation is ideally suited to develop a viable business around the expected military and commercial market pull for this technology. Resodyn Corporation's agile business model, research capabilities, and light manufacturing potential enable us to deliver product to the market."
No-Bake Powder Coating,FA8103-06-C-0167,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2006,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,Principal Investigator,4064975229,scoguill@resodyn.com,The U.S. Air Force desires an airplane painting procedure that produces powder coating quality without the requirement of putting the whole plane in an oven. Resodyn Corporation proposes an innovative no-bake powder coating process that uses thermal spray techniques to melt and cure polymer powders onto large structures without the need of a curing oven. Related development work and preliminary design indicate a high potential for success. Resodyn Corporation's proposed design depends on precise heat management at various stages of the process resulting in independently controlled heating of the polymer and the substrate. This prevents polymer degradation and overheating of the substrate. The Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of the process by applying common aeronautical coatings on aluminum substrates.
SBIR Phase I: Asymmetrical Tetrapyrroles for Two-Photon Volumetric Optical Memory,0539462,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2006,1,99912.00,"MPA Technologies, Inc",2100 Fairway Drive,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,Charles W. Spangler,Dr,4065858192,charlesspangler@mpatechnologies.com,Charles W. Spangler,Dr,4065858192,charlesspangler@mpatechnologies.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I proposal defines a new paradigm for 3D optical storage which relies on two-photon write and read mechanisms based on rapid, reversible proton photo-isomerization in asymmetric phthalocyanine molecules specifically designed to operate via a proton switching mechanism that eschews molecular motion and depends only on electron reorganization. This work will clearly delineate a new figure-of-merit that identifies molecular structures capable of enhanced optical memory characteristics. It is anticipated that such structure-property relationships will result in new ultra-fast terabit storage capabilities at least one order of magnitude better than the best contemporary materials. The operational temperature limit for these new materials is predicted to be in the range of electronic (Peltier) cooling to, at best, room temperature operation. This model will result in a radically new paradigm for an ultra-fast organic memory material, and a new benchmark for optical computing. Modern optical information storage (OIS) technology is shifting rapidly towards ultra-fast, multilayer, three-dimensional (3D) carriers of information. This technology could empower the average citizen with the capability of manipulating vast amounts of stored data, whether in text or visual format. Current technology cannot possibly meet this demand due to the inherent
limitations on memory based on nuclear motion."
Development of a selective biosensor for detecting organophosphate exposure,1U44NS058229-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,1,3039436.00,NAGY CONSULTING,910 TECHNOLOGY BLVD. STE G,,BOZEMAN,MT,59718,No,No,No,,,4065868420,,Jon O. Nagy,,4065868420,jon.nagy@nagyconsult.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This SBIR project is in response to the call for the development of rapid and portable diagnostic tools for chemical threat exposure, suitable for use by emergency care providers in order to guide medical countermeasures. The broad objective of this proposal is to develop an extremely sensitive and selective biosensor device capable of detecting and discriminating proteins in human serum samples taken from personnel that have been exposed to potentially harmful levels of organophosphate-based nerve gas. This represents a novel approach in biomarker analysis because exposure to each different organophosphate (OP) chemical nerve agent results in a distinct protein ""fingerprint"" structure that can be identified, distinguished from other agents, and quantified. Using novel sensor thin polymer film technology, reporter domains will be customized with specific protein-recognition molecules that detect the OP poisoned proteins. This will make it possible to develop an inexpensive, yet highly rapid, and accurate device to analyze exposure to OP chemical agents, assess the type and extent of OP agent exposure and then this information will be used to guide the therapeutic intervention necessary. The major milestones in this program are first to show proof-of-principal for the sensitivity and reliability of the film sensor element, second to demonstrate reproducible and accurate detection of OP-modified proteins in actual serum samples, and third, construct a prototype breadboard device that will guide the design of the commercial biosensor device. To accomplish these milestones, a collaboration has been established with a group specializing in OP toxified proteins. These scientists will provide the biorecognition molecules for film conjugation. Researchers familiar with bioconjugation and film preparation will construct the sensor elements. Samples of human serum containing toxified proteins will be then used to measure the film response. Finally, optical and electrical engineers will be utilized to assist in designing and assembling the prototype demonstration device. The end user of such a device is anticipated to be the field personnel and mobile medical units likely to encounter situations where combat troops have been exposed to OP chemical agents as well as civilians placed under terrorist threat. Potential public exposure to two classes of related organophosphate (OP) chemical agents are pesticides and nerve gases. Through either accidental over-exposure to pesticides or acts of bioterrorism, these agents can fatally harm humans. Realization of the proposed biosensor device will allow, as never before, rapid assessment of type and degree of OP exposure, and direct medical personnel to appropriate treatment modalities."
Potent and selective DHFR inhibitors for treating Cryptosporidiosis,1R41AI065143-01A2,HHS,HHS,STTR,2006,1,279271.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,Dana Warren,,4068840022,dana.e.warren@mail.promiliad.com,Dennis L. Wright,,4068640022,dennis.l.wright@mail.promiliad.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This STTR application requests funds to support the transfer of specific biophysical and synthetic expertise from the Anderson and Wright Groups at the University of Connecticut to investigators at Promiliad Biopharma in a joint effort to develop best-in- class therapeutic agents for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. This water-borne protozoan, Cryptosporidium spp. represents an emerging infectious disease and has been placed on NIAID's class B list of potential biodefense hazards. These efforts will focus on inhibitors of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), a key enzyme involved in the production of deoxythymidine monophospate and critical for the survival of the parasitic organism. Although inhibition of this enzyme has proven a successful strategy to combat malaria, bacterial infections and toxoplasmosis, there has been no success in treating cryptosporidiosis with DHFR inhibitors. The need for the development of such agents is underscored by the absence of any effective agents against Cryptosporidium. The Anderson group has recently solved the crystal structure of DHFR-TS derived from Cryptosporidium and has identified several features of the active site that can be exploited to design potent and selective inhibitors of Cryptosporidium DHFR. In collaboration with the Wright group and Promiliad Biopharma, a series of novel classes of inhibitors have been designed to display enhanced levels of potency and selectivity. Through this STTR initiative we will create moderately sized libraries of novel inhibitors though parallel synthesis, screen these libraries for potent and selective inhibitors of C. hominis DHFR using in vitro enzyme and cell culture assays. We expect to discover several novel inhibitors that will provide the foundation for Phase II research for the development of new therapeutics."
STTR Phase I: Arsenic and Selenium Remediation and Recovery with Immobilized Metal Polyamine Composites,0610506,NSF,NSF,STTR,2006,1,100000.00,"Purity Systems, Inc.",3116 Old Pond Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,Carolyn K. Hart,,4065323237,ckhartpsi@bigsky.net,Carolyn K. Hart,Ms,4065323237,ckhartpsi@gmail.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will advance the ability to remove arsenate, arsenite, selenate and selenite from surface waters and waste streams using Immobilized Metal Polyamine Composites (IMPACs). Preliminary studies using tetravalent zirconium on a silica polyamine composite showed good selectivity and led to an efficient process for stripping the arsenate, selenate or selenite without leaching the zirconium from the composite. The contamination of surface waters and aquifers with arsenic and selenium is a ubiquitous problem owing to the presence of these anions in mining and industrial waste streams and as a result of geothermal mobilization of arsenic. Tremendous effort has gone into developing remediation technologies and although many hold promise for site specific applications they suffer from several key disadvantages including high operating cost, low selectivity and generation of huge amounts of sludge as a byproduct. Development of an adaptable series of durable anion exchange materials would have a broad impact on the mining, metal processing and remediation industries. Development of the proposed IMPAC products will have a large impact in the Northwestern U. S. where there are hundreds of abandoned and operating mine sites with arsenic and selenium containing waste streams in holding tanks or surface waters."
UAV Hyperspectral Mapping System for Precision Agriculture,2006-33610-16811,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2006,1,79999.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Business Manager,4065863356,kehoe@resonon.com,Thomas Moon,Project Director,4065863356,moon@resonon.com,"The emergence of compact, high-performance imaging spectrometers and small, military-grade Uninhabited Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has created an opportunity to develop an airborne system that provides affordable, timely, map-registered, hyperspectral data for precision agriculture. The purpose of the Phase I effort is to design an airborne hyperspectral imaging system for flight on small UAVs and customized for precision agriculture."
A Multi-Parameter Inorganic Carbon Measurement System,DG133R06CN0161,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2006,1,94998.00,"Sunburst Sensors, LLC",1226 West Broadway,,Missoula,MT,59802-3915,No,No,Yes,James C. Beck,President,4065323246,jim@sunburstsensors.com,James C. Beck,President,4065323246,jim@sunburstsensors.com,"NOAA requests proposals to develop a system for the measurement of pCO2, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and total alkalinity (AT) for shipboard use. In response, Sunburst Sensors proposed integration of a novel approach for analysis of AT developed at the University of Montana (UM) with existing DIC and pCO2 analyzers developed by Burke Hales (OSU) and pH and pCO2 sensors developed at UM. In Phase I, Sunburst will demonstrate the feasibility of a commercial rapid response, low volume design for an AT analyzer based on UM┬┐s tracer monitored titration (TMT) methodology and reducing the sample size and response times for the pCO2 and pH systems. With these optimizations in place, Phase II will then focus on integrating them into a single system capable of sampling from either a ship seawater line or discrete samples. The end product will be a valuable tool that can be sold to oceanographers and limnologists."
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) Surface Feature Extraction Tool,N61339-06-C-0055,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2006,2,1000000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,CEO,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,COO,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"NAVAIR requires accurate and timely 3-D geospecific features, terrain, and imagery data to support Modeling and Simulation (M&S) software applications used in training and pre-mission rehearsal simulators. LIDAR data provides an excellent source for spatially accurate digital terrain and 3-D feature information; however, current visual database production techniques require hundreds of man-hours to extract and attribute features. Automated processes are necessary to achieve the Navy's goal of good M&S data that is efficiently processed and correctly formatted. Bottlenecks in producing good data are a result of manual processes used in (1) registering old features and imagery to newly acquired imagery and LIDAR, (2) extracting and editing complex 3-D geometries, and (3) updating and attributing features. The proposed Phase II workplan promises to significantly alleviate these bottlenecks by developing a system that exploits the information content of LIDAR and multiband imagery using machine learning-based feature extraction technology. The envisioned system will have the capability of automating the extraction of M&S features from LIDAR, registering features to images, allowing dynamic interaction with analysts, interrogating analysts when it needs additional information, and embedding the ability to create a continuously updated repository of feature extraction models."
Automatic Extraction of Urban Features from Terrestrial LIDAR Systems,W9132V-06-C-0020,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2006,2,730000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,President,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,COO,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"The U.S. Army requires automated feature extraction (AFE) software to collect 3D urban features from terrestrial LIDAR data in a timely and cost-effective manner to support the ground-based Warfighter operating in the urban battlespace. Vehicle-mounted terrestrial LIDAR systems have the capability to capture very-accurate 3D measurements of the urban environment with spatial resolutions on the order of 5 centimeters or less. The 3D imaging capability of these collection systems is negated, however, by a lack of commercial software tools capable of exploiting terrestrial LIDAR datasets with a high degree of automation. Current approaches for creating high-resolution 3D urban models are expensive, requiring thousands of man-hours to digitize feature geometries, assign textures to features, and then attribute features. Visual Learning Systems, Inc. has developed a unique capability to automatically extract 3D urban features from terrestrial LIDAR data including building facades, doors, windows, poles, trees, vehicles and other urban features of interest. The proposed Ground-Based 3D Urban Modeling Toolkit, designed as a plug-in for VLS' Feature Analyst and LIDAR Analyst software, provides the Army with a comprehensive and automated 3D feature extraction solution for urban environments."
Automated Feature Extraction from Hyperspectral Imagery,NNC06CB48C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,1,70000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,Business Official,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,Principal Investigator,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"In response to NASA Topic S7.01, Visual Learning Systems, Inc. (VLS) will develop a novel hyperspectral plug-in toolkit for its award winning Feature AnalystREG software that will (a) leverage VLS' proven algorithms to provide a new, simple, and long-awaited approach to materials classification from hyperspectral imagery (HSI), and (b) improve state-of-the-art Feature Analyst's automated feature extraction (AFE) capabilities by effectively incorporating detailed spectral information into its extraction process. HSI techniques, such as spectral end-member classification, can provide effective materials classification; however, current methods are slow (or manual), cumbersome, complex for analysts, and are limited to materials classification only. Feature Analyst, on the other hand has a simple workflow of (a) an analyst providing a few examples (e.g., pixels of a certain material) and (b) an advanced software agent classifying the rest of the imagery based on the examples. This simple yet powerful approach will be used as a new paradigm for materials classification. In addition, Feature Analyst uses, along with spectral information, feature characteristics such as spatial association, size, shape, texture, pattern, and shadow in its generic AFE process. Incorporating the best spectral classifier techniques with the best AFE approach promises to greatly increase the usefulness and applicability of HSI"
SBIR Phase I: True Analog Fractional Order Control,0538866,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2006,1,99775.00,Wavelength Electronics,51 Evergreen Drive,,Bozeman,MT,59715,Yes,No,No,Gary W. Bohannan,Dr,4065874183,gary@teamwavelength.com,Gary W. Bohannan,Dr,4065874183,gary@teamwavelength.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will improve and simplify servomechanism control by using a patent-pending new circuit element - the Fractor. Human augmentation systems requiring human-like motion will be the first targets for this novel control approach based on fractional order control (FOC), including prosthetic joints and powered wheelchairs. The control technology also holds promise to solve stability problems in other servomechanisms, such as hard disc drives. State-of-the-art control systems for light and flexible systems require constant retuning or extremely complex control algorithms to ""predict"" and ""adapt"" to changing conditions but cannot respond to unconsidered circumstances. These limitations evaporate with the introduction of the full power of the fractional calculus. Fractional order calculus simply introduces the real number line to a theory that has been artificially constrained to the integer numbers. FOC is internationally recognized as the next route of improvement in robotics. This research to pioneer a new paradigm of control engineering is supported by both a prosthetic company and hard disc drive manufacturers. Neuro-motor dynamics in humans have been successfully modeled by fractional differential equations, with the same form as is exhibited by the Fractor. Also, the fractional order control matches diffusion-limited processes in fuel cells and thermally-limited systems, e.g. steam and nuclear power plants."
Concept of Operations Storyboarding Tool,NNJ06JD75C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,1,69447.00,"S&K Technologies, Inc.","56 Old Highway 93 North, Box 339",,St. Ignatius,MT,59865-0339,No,Yes,No,Dermot O'Halloran,Business Official,4067455720,dohall@sktcorp.com,Carroll G. Thronesbery,Principal Investigator,2812445602,c.thronesbery@jsc.nasa.gov,"S&K Technologies proposes to develop a storyboard tool to assist with the generation, verification, and refinement of storyboard information and its subsequent translation into model data for systems analysis and design tools. The most important contribution is an improved communication of the concept of operation between prospective customers and system developers. It addresses the difficulty of communicating highly technical information among specialized engineering groups so that the concept of operations illustrated by the storyboard accommodates the consideration of context of use, user task performance, effective application of new technologies, safety, and reliability. This difficulty is especially pronounced when the user's tasks are unusual (space operations) and the technology to support the task is novel (autonomous software with which humans interact and monitor). Communication is enhanced by focusing on the common language of storyboard information. The storyboard tool will help authors manage versions of storyboards to track alternate approaches for human task support and to maintain libraries of storyboards from previous systems. After assisting with the creation of storyboards and refining them in concurrent engineering sessions, the tool will assist in translating the storyboard information into data forms importable by analysis tools used by NASA systems engineers."
Engineered Materials for improved Airborne Laser Mine Detection Systems,N00178-05-C-3039,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,2,299976.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Director of Finance and A,4065220388,kehoe@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Laser Physicist,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This Navy SBIR Phase II effort will develop the processing steps required to fabricate high quality periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate (PPSLT) and demonstrate its utility for use in both current and emerging Airborne Laser Mine Detection Systems (ALMDS) by enabling highly efficient laser wavelenth conversion. The proposed optical material will also support the development of short-pulsed, high repetition rate fiber-based lasers operating in the blue/green spectral region that may be used in future ALMDS for improved mine detection and discrimination in shallow water and surf zone regions. AdvR will utilize a novel poling technique, which was successfully demonstrated during the Phase I effort, in conjunction with improved periodic electrode design to optimize the SLT poling process. Conversion efficiency and damage threshold of the PPSLT substrate will be measured using both a pulsed, high power Nd:YAG laser and a short pulse, high repetition rate, high average power ytterbium doped fiber laser. A benchtop frequency doubled, short pulse high repetition rate fiber laser will be built using the engineered material to demonstrate the advancements possible in a future ALMDS laser transmitter system as well as facilitate the development of future ALMDS systems."
"A narrowband, frequency-agile laser for optical interrogation of arrayed fiber optic sensors",N00024-03-C-4146,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,2,599387.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,V.P. Technology,4065220388,Battle@advr-inc.com,Gregg Switzer,Principal Investigator,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"The VIRGINIA Class submarine employs the Light-Weight Wide Aperture Array (LWWAA) hull-mounted array of fiber-optic hydrophones that requires the use of high performance, narrowband lasers. In this Navy Phase II SBIR effort, a prototype laser for the LWWAA hull-array sensor will be developed using the frequency-stabilized semiconductor laser technology demonstrated during the Phase I effort. The specific objective of the Phase II effort will be to develop a master oscillator power amplifier based on a Bragg-stabilized semiconductor laser combined with a compact optical amplifier at 1319 nm that has suitable optical and mechanical characteristics for use in the hull-array sensor. The laser platform developed under this SBIR effort is readily adaptable to other useful wavelengths such as 1550 nm for use in the next generation of arrayed optical sensors."
"Compact, Low-Cost, Frequency-Locked Semiconductor Laser for Injection Seeding High Power Laser",NNL05AA12C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2005,2,599942.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip R. Battle,Vice President,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Gregg Switzer,Principal Investigator,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"This NASA Small Business Innovative Research Phase II project will develop a compact, low-cost, wavelength locked seed laser for injection locking high powered Nd:YAG lasers used in a range of lidar remote sensing applications including molecular profiling of the atmosphere. Precise wavelength control of the seed laser will be achieved by actively locking the laser wavelength to an absorption line in molecular iodine. The key innovation in this SBIR effort is the use of nonlinear optical waveguides both to frequency modulate and to frequency double a portion of the seed laser beam to generate the appropriate optical signal for locking to the iodine absorption line. Using an all-waveguide based approach will result in a compact, robust package that will withstand temperature, shock, and vibration levels associated with NASA's airborne and space based remote sensing platforms."
"Monolithic, High-Speed Fiber-Optic Switching Array for Lidar",NNG05CA34C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2005,1,69942.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Vice PResident of Technology,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"The proposed optical device is a fiber-based multi-channel switch to quickly switch a fiber-coupled laser among many possible output channels to create a fiber-based fixed-array laser transmitter for next-generation NASA lidar systems. The key innovation is the use of an arrangement of electro-optic prisms created in a nonlinear optical crystal through domain reversal to direct the laser into one of many possible output fibers. This design will provide several important features that are required, yet not currently available in a fiber switch, in order to achieve a fiber-arrayed lidar source, such as high optical power handling, reduced crosstalk, low optical loss, fast switching times, low power consumption, and robust construction in a monolithic package with no moving parts. The Phase I effort will demonstrate feasibility of the approach by creating a preliminary device with representative features to assess the suitability of the technology for use in lidar systems."
"UAV-based mine detection using a short pulse, high repetition rate, multicolor laser transmitter",N00178-05-C-3028,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,1,69939.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Vice President of Technology,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,Laser Physicist,4065220388,roberts@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of a UAV compatible lidar scanner/receiver for use with a high repetition rate, short pulse, multicolor laser transmitter. The system features an electro-optic beam scanner and a fiber optic receiver. The key innovation in this effort is a beam steering device without moving parts which offers high bandwidth, wide scan range, low loss, and high power handling capability. The receiver to be identified is a shaped, narrow field of view fiber optic receiver. The scanning/receiving system will be capable of detecting short (subnanosecond) pulses operating at high repetition rates (>> kHz) over multiple wavelengths optimized for detection in the Very Shallow Water littoral zone region. The compact, robust, energy efficient, multi-wavelength detection, long-life cycle capable scanning and receiver system proposed in this SBIR effort will be ideally suited for use in a UAV-based laser mine detection system as called for by the Navy ALMDS program."
"Low-Power, Lightweight Cloud Water Content Sensor",NNG05CA37C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2005,1,69957.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John Bognar,Business Official,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John Bognar,Principal Investigator,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"The water content of clouds, whether in liquid or ice form, is a key variable to be measured when either calibrating remote sensing systems or when calculating the climatological effects of clouds. While a variety of sensors exist for making these measurements, all of the existing sensors require far too much power or other energy input to be used on small platforms with limited payloads such as UAVs, balloons, and kites. Anasphere has developed and completed preliminary testing of a novel cloud water content sensor which does not require any external energy input, but is capable of measuring both liquid water and ice content of clouds. Preliminary results have been extremely promising. Phase I work will include the fabrication and demonstration of proof-of-concept sensors based on the designs investigated in the preliminary research, culminating in a balloon-borne flight with a radiosonde through a cloud. Phase II work will include the refinement of the design, extensive laboratory testing, and extensive field intercomparisons and trials."
Pneumatic Conveyance Technology for Native Seed Harvesters,2005-33610-15516,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2005,1,80000.00,"Arbuckle Ranch, Inc.","100 Poly Drive, Suite 155",,Billings,MT,59101,No,No,No,Lee Arbuckle,,4062942995,arbuckle@bresnan.net,Lee Arbuckle,,4062942995,arbuckle@bresnan.net,"Reclamation or restoration of sustainable native grasslands is constrained by the lack of seed of many difficult to harvest species. The lack of seed of many species stems from the lack of harvest equipment that can effectively dislodge, separate, convey, and off-load seed with challenging morphologies. The project will develop a pneumatic conveyance technology to integrate with the seed dislodgement and seed separation technology of the Arbuckle Native Seedster to produce harvester for difficult to harvest species of native grass that is much more productive that currently available harvesters."
Nanocomposite Tribological Corrosion Resistant Coating for Robust Bearings and Gears,FA8650-05-C-5007,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2005,2,726006.00,"ARCOMAC SURFACE ENGINEERING, LLC",6575 Butler Creek Road,,Missoula,MT,59808 8656,No,No,No,Jeff Wisehart,General Manager,4065497451,jwisehart@am-eagle.com,Vladimir Gorokhovsky,Director of Research & De,4065227620,VIGASE@aol.com,"""Critical gears and engine bearings in our newest vertical thrust aircraft must operate with absolute reliability under high loads, high heat, corrosive salt air and intervals without lubricant. Current gear and bearing materials meet the design requirements, however, it is desirable to improve the component durability under unexpected severe operation (longer oil off) or extreme environmental (corrosive salt air)conditions. Advanced coatings possessing a combination of wear and corrosion resistance have a potential of extending component durability, and thus lowering life cycle costs. Now, a breakthrough in surface engineering technology can precisely control deposition of coatings at the level of vaporized atoms. It can deposit an atomically bonded, multiple layered, integrated coating combining different metal and ceramic materials, each with a different desired property. Engine parts with the multiplex coating(s)will be rigorously evaluated in this program for their durability and reliability under aggressive operating conditions. Such successful coatings have an enormous opportunity for future applications to a wide range of military and civilian aircraft engine components that operate in severe fretting or corrosive environment conditions."
Plasma Surface Engineering for Bearing Wear and Corrosion Prevention in Advanced Gas Turbine Engines,FA8650-05-M-2577,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2005,1,99974.00,"ARCOMAC SURFACE ENGINEERING, LLC",6575 Butler Creek Road,,Missoula,MT,59808 8656,No,No,No,Jeff Wisehart,VP of Operations,4065497451,jwisehart@am-eagle.com,Vladimir Gorokhovsky,Director of R & D,4065227620,VIGASE@aol.com,"Current engine bearing lubrication technology begins to break down at the high rotation speeds, loads and temperatures required for advanced fighter engines. Furthermore, in combat operation bearings may have to operate for short periods with no lubrication, and also resist pervasive corrosive environments. In this program the bearing material will be modified to be ""slippery"", more durable, resist corrosion and hold lubricant evenly on the entire contact surface. This is possible because a breakthrough in surface engineering technology can precisely control deposition of coatings at the level of vaporized atoms. This innovative technology can deposit atomically bonded, multiple layered, nanocomposite coatings combined with engineered surface texturing in a single integrated tribo-system, so coated engine bearings will perform dependably under extreme operating conditions. There is an enormous opportunity for future applications to lubricate a wide range of military and civilian mechanical components that operate in severe environments."
Recognizing Target Variants Using Transformational Adaptivity,FA8650-05-M-1867,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2005,1,97720.00,GENERAL INTELLIGENCE CORP.,PO Box 7380,,Bozeman,MT,59771,No,No,No,David W. Arathorn,Pres,4065821884,dwa@giclab.com,David W. Arathorn,Pres,4065821884,dwa@giclab.com,"One of the greatest obstacles to robust Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) is achieving a high level of performance in operating conditions outside those for which the system is designed. The bio-mimetic map-seeking circuit (MSC) has provided remarkably simple solutions to extending operating range for recognizing 3D targets allowing recognition from any viewpoint, tolerating clutter and distractors anywhere in the field of view including near the target, up to a substantial degree of occlusion. Its performance is negligibly impaired by imagery resolution down to fewer than a dozen cycles on target. Nevertheless, map-seeking has been limited, as other model-based vision approaches have been, to recognizing targets exactly or highly similar to the stored models. General Intelligence Corp proposes, as a component of a general purpose ATR system, an extension to the map-seeking approach to 3D object recognition which will allow plausible variants of stored models to be recognized. This extension of the map-seeking circuit's abilities, termed ""transformational adaptivity,"" will make it possible to recognize articulations, plausible morphs and aggregations of known target models on the fly. As important, this solution will be able to report the parameters of the variation for further stages of decision-making by machine or human operator."
"Camelina Sativa: A Multiuse Oil Crop for Biofuel, Omega-3 Cooking Oil, and Protein/Oil Source for Animal Feed",2005-33610-15501,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2005,1,80000.00,Great Northern Growers Cooperative,"1 Railroad Avenue, Box 99",,Sunburst,MT,59482,No,No,No,Gary Iverson,Operations and Agronomy Manager,4069374000,tsmi@northerntel.net,Gary Iverson,Operations and Agronomy Manager,4069374000,tsmi@northerntel.net,"Situation Camelina sativa (camelina, false flax, or Gold of Pleasure) is an under-utilized crop that contains valuable oil, fiber and high quality protein with many potential uses in both nutrition (human and animal) and industrial applications: Camelina has been evaluated for oil production in the US (Robinson, 1987; Putman et al. 1993), but surprisingly, it has not yet emerged as a viable US crop. The Great Northern Growers Cooperative (GNG) is proposing to rapidly scale-up production of this multiple-use crop in the Northern Great Plains and to concurrently develop innovations to efficiently produce omega-3 products for human and animal consumption, as well as producing industrial biofuels and biolubricants Purpose This crop can be economically produced and processed in Montana providing a much needed high value, multi-use crop with relatively low input costs for Montana producers."
Innovative Surface Feature Extraction for Visualization using LIDAR Intensity and Co-registered Optical Data,N61339-05-C-0019,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,1,79405.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Marc Richards,Executive Director,4065569880,richards@hyperspectives.net,Robert Crabtree,Chief Scientist,4065569880,crabtree@hyperspectives.net,"Pre-mission rehearsal using 3D, simulated fly throughs derived from remotely sensed data can signicantly enhance warfighter safety and efficiency. Because of its great potential for extracting the location, orientation, identification, and elevation profile of surface features, LIDAR (light ranging and detection) data provide an excellent information base for creating these simulated visualizations. The proposed work will demonstrate the feasibility of using both LIDAR signal return timing and, uniquely, signal intensity to extract surface features. The work will be based on the ELF (Extracting LIDAR Features) algorithms, currently under development by HyPerspectives scientists. The ELF algorithms employ intensity data for scene classification into vegetated and non-vegetated regions, then employ a unique search procedure for feature identification and characterization. The work also will show feasibilty of co-registering high resolution optical spectra to the LIDAR scenes. When used in conjunction with LIDAR, high resolution optical sensors (e.g., hyperspectral) can provide valuable and highly complementary data for surface feature identification and characterization. Phase I proof of concept efforts will employ single return LIDAR, seek to extract three terrain features (buildings, vegetated patches, non-vegetated ground), and require user input for selecting the original input grid search size. In the Phase I Option, we will automate the ELF algorithm search procedures and, like Phase I, benchmark performance for incorporating the extracted data into a visual database. Manual co-registration of optical data will be shown for a single scene in Phase I, then automated in Phase II."
SBIR Phase II: Microbial Enhancement of Soybeans for Salmonid Diets,0449453,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2005,2,499400.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford A. Bradley,Mr,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford A. Bradley,Mr,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project aims to develop a process for enhancing the nutritional value of soybeans to replace fishmeal as the primary ingredient in farmed trout and salmon feed. Fishmeal creates environmental and economic constraints for the aquaculture industry. Plant-derived proteins are a good alternate feed source, but do not meet the nutritional requirements of many farmed fish species including trout and salmon. Prior Phase I work demonstrated that a combination of a selected fungal strain with innovations in solid substrate culture (SSC) would increase the protein content, eliminate the non-digestible carbohydrates and reduce anti-nutritional factors in soybeans. This Phase II project will test pilot-scale SSC technology to determine engineering design and economics for a commercial process to manufacture the bio-enhanced soy protein, and to demonstrate the feed value of this protein in trout feeding trials. The commercial application of this project will be in the aquaculture industry. The use of fishmeal creates economic, market and water pollution issues for fish farmers, and consumer concerns regarding environmental impacts (for example, there are reports of PCBs, dioxins, and other pesticides detected at higher levels in farmed salmon that have been fed fishmeal based diets). Replacing fishmeal with plant based proteins will promote health through increased fish consumption and will alleviate environmental and economic constraints facing the aquaculture industry."
Bacillus Mycoides: Induced Systemic Resistance for Disease Control in Agricultural Crops,2005-33610-16085,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2005,2,296000.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford Bradley,Founding Member,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford Bradley,Founding Member,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"Microbial or biochemical agents that control plant diseases by inducing systemic resistance to pathogen infection could play a significant role in crop disease management. Bacillus mycoides, isolate J, BmJ, represents the first such agent that acts by foliar (rather than root) application and that does not cause leaf tissue damage in any plants. Disease control with this strain was previously demonstrated in sugar beets. Research in a Phase I SBIR project demonstrated control of multiple diseases in cucumber, significantly expanding the commercial potential. In the phase II SBIR project, MMP will advance BmJ commercialization by demonstrating cost effective disease control in cucumber and melon crops, developing commercial formulations, expanding potential markets with tests in additional crop, disease systems and conducting further research on the mechanisms by which BmJ induces disease resistance in plants."
Microbial Enhancement of Flax to Replace Fishmeal and Oil in Salmonid Diets,DG133R-05-CN-1209,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2005,1,49953.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Stephen P. Bryant,Founding Member,4065311830,bryants@montana.com,Clifford Bradley,Founding Member,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"Flax containing omega 3 fatty acids and relatively high protein content offers advantages as a potential source of plant protein and oil to replace fishmeal and oil in aquaculture feeds; reducing both pressure on marine fisheries and the principal source of contaminants in farmed fish. MMP ahs used innovative fungal culture technology in separate processes to develop low cost, multi activity cellulose enzymes and to enhance protein content and nutritional quality of soybeans. Integrating these processes to convert fiber and increase protein and oil concentration of flax would overcome the principal barriers to using flax in aquaculture feeds. In Phase I, MMP will meet three objectives to demonstrate technical feasibility; 1) determine the best process design for integrating fiber conversion and nutritional enhancement; 2) develop enhanced flax that meets principal nutritional criteria for replacing fishmeal in salmonid diets; 3) test acceptance of enhanced flax in initial trout feeding trials"
Multimodal Acoustic Mixing Process for Carbon Nanotube Polymer Composites,DE-FG02-05ER84254,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2005,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Mr.,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Joel Pierce,Mr.,4067232222,jpierce@resodyn.com,"79430S Conventional, industrial polymer mixers, such as kneaders and twin screws, do not provide sufficient carbon nanotube dispersion to realize the full potential of nanotube reinforcements in polymers. Although laboratory researchers commonly disperse carbon nanotubes into solvents and polymers, only modest systematic work has been conducted to make the hardware more effective or energy efficient, and the transfer of these bench-scale practices to industrial processes for the manufacture of carbon nanotube polymer composites has received even less attention. This project will investigate mixing small diameter carbon nanotubes into a polymer matrix using a high intensity, multimodal (multifrequency) acoustic field. In Phase I, data will be gathered on the interaction of acoustic energy with a heterogeneous medium comprised of carbon nanotubes and an epoxy polymer. Experiments will be conducted to compare mixing performance against existing ┐silent┐ mixing methods, by evaluating the mixedness of the nanocomposites and the mechanical properties of the test specimens. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The mixing technology should allow higher performance products to be produced by incorporating nanotube additives with limited capital expense. The replacement of conventional polymers or alloys with nanocomposite polymers offers the potential to reduce weight substantially without sacrificing properties. One benefit would be improved fuel economy in cars and airplanes constructed with nanocomposite polymers."
Transdermal Delivery of Anti-Malarial Drug,W81XWH-05-C-0050,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2005,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Fangxiao Yang,Biochemical Engineer,4067232222,fxyang@resodyn.com,"This Phase I proposal is aimed to develop a technology to delivery lipophilic therapeutic ingredients in broad and antimalarial drug primaquine in specific through skins. The proposed driving force of delivering target drugs is the opposite chemical affiliation of storage copolymer matrix and active therapeutic ingredient. The technology includes the formulation of patches - hydrophilic polymers, selection of permeation enhancers, encapsulation of primaquine in the polymers and drug diffusion flux measurements. The patches will be tested in vitro with cadaver skins for primaquine release or diffusion rate in the Phase I study. In Phase II study, the tests will apply to live animals and human subjects for delivery efficiency evaluation. The key features of the proposed transdermal delivery devices are: ┐ Effective delivery lipophilic anti-malarial drug to the skin ┐ Controllable dosage in the preparation ┐ Enhanced compliance for administration of soldiers ┐ Easy to be carried with soldier and long storage life ┐ Easy and inexpensive to be prepared ┐ Easy to be applied by users The proposed study meets the topic narrative for DOD solicitation A04-200 ""Novel Routes of Drug Administration to Enhance Compliance in Soldiers"""
Fatigue Enhanced Cold-worked Hole FECH - Analyzer,N68335-06-C-0059,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,1,79999.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975252,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Steve Galbraith,Prinicpal Investigator,4064975223,sgalbraith@resodyn.com,"The Navy routinely uses a structural strengthening technique called cold hole expansion for increasing the fatigue life of primary aircraft structures that are fastened together. This process creates beneficial compressive stresses around the hole. However, variances in the process produce inconsistent results and no means exist to nondestructively quantify the process effectiveness. Resodyn Corporation proposes the development of technology based on a novel eddy current circuit and coil array that will map stress contours around the hole. Fundamentally, the circuit and coil arrangement is designed to be sensitive enough to measure changes in conductivity across the stress field resulting from various stress states around the hole and correlate the conductivity measurements to stress values. This approach has advantages over contemporary methods because it can be readily implemented into a small hand held probe that can provide either quantitative or go / no-go metrics in the field. The team assembled to research this technology includes a scientific consultant who has previously demonstrated feasibility of the proposed approach on a different application, the developer and major supplier of hole expansion tooling, a manufacturer of eddy current equipment, and product development engineers with demonstrated product to market success."
SBIR Phase I: Development of a BioAcoustic Mixing Platform,0512829,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2005,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Mr,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. McAdams,Dr,4064975200,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of using ResonantAcoustics (low-frequency acoustic mixing) as the basis for developing a highly efficient BioAcoustic Mixing Platform (BMP). Conventional biological orbital shakers and cell culture flasks have substantial drawbacks that include low oxygen transfer capability and presence of detrimental oxygen and nutrient gradients. Culture containers placed on the BMP, in contrast, are expected to achieve superior mass transfer rates (that is, increased oxygen transfer and reduced mixing times). In this Phase I project, new types of disposable culture containers and closures will be designed in order to take full advantage of the enhanced acoustic mixing for both microbial and cell cultures. Performance of the BMP will be compared to conventional shakers and flasks for bacterial, fungal, and animal cell cultures. It is anticipated that the BMP will be able to support dramatically increased biomass levels and lead to the development of highly productive disposable bioreactor systems. The commercial application of this project will be in biotechnology based process development activities for the biological production of pharmaceuticals. Much of this work is currently performed using stirred-tank bioreactors due to the limitations of orbital shake-flasks and cell culture flasks. A mixing technology that integrates laboratory-scale and pilot-scale experiments would be highly valuable in speeding the pace of process development."
SBIR Phase I: Multimodal Acoustic Mixing of Carbon Nanotube Composites,0512667,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2005,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Mr,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Joel Pierce,Mr,4067232222,jpierce@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of using multiple acoustic frequencies as a multimodal approach to mixing small diameter carbon nanotubes into a polymer matrix to create a high-performance nanocomposite material. Multiple acoustic frequencies are employed to effect distributive and dispersive mixing. Conventional, industrial polymer mixers, such as kneaders and twin screws, do not show sufficient nanotube dispersion to realize the full potential of the nanotube reinforcements. A unique Resonant Acoustic Mixing (RAM) technology has been shown to be very effective for mixing high viscosity materials such as polymers. This research will utilize a multimodal acoustic RAM technology, for its distributive and dispersive mixing mechanisms, to produce nanocomposite polymers. The project will gather data on the interaction of acoustic energy with the heterogeneous medium comprised of carbon nanotubes and an epoxy polymer. The data will be used to design mixing vessels and guide experiments. The experiments will quantify the mixer performance for comparison against existing ""silent"" mixing methods by evaluating the mixedness of the nanocomposite and the mechanical properties of test specimens. The results of the Phase I will establish the proposed mixing approach as a viable mixing alternative for the polymer industry. Commercially, although laboratory researchers commonly disperse carbon nanotubes into solvents and polymers, only modest systematic work has been conducted to make the hardware more effective or efficient, and the transfer of these bench-scale practices to industrial processes for the manufacture of nanotube products has received even less attention. By working toward a scalable mixing process, the research, development and manufacture of high-performance nanocomposite materials can be advanced. Polymer material manufacturers in the U.S. benefit from the proposed technology in that higher performance products may be produced with limited capital by incorporating nanotube additives. Replacing conventional plastics with nanoreinforced plastics offers the potential to substantially reduce weight without sacrificing properties. A clear example would be improved fuel economy in cars and planes. The initial commercial targets of the nanocomposite mixer are manufacturing processes for highvalue, structural composites as can be found in sporting goods."
Sewage Trap Grease Conversion with an Acoustic Driven Reactor,EP-D-05-035,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2005,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Fangxiao Yang,Senior Scientist & Chemical Engineer,,fxyang@resodyn.com,"There are more than 11 billion pounds of trap grease available annually which have the potential to create over 1 billion gallons of biodiesel that can be utilized to power the nation's public works and public transit systems. Removing this trap grease from our nation's wastwater treatment facilitis and infrasturcture will reduce maintenance on existing sanitary sewer collection mains and the loads on local landfills. The overall objective of the Phase I project is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of non-catalytic biodiesle and lubricant production using trap grease as the startig material in an Acoustic Grease Conversion Reactor (AGCR). The study will initially be focused on fatty acid methly ester (FAME) - biodiesel production and, at a later stage will expand to lubricant and solvent production. An experimental AGCR with a capacity up to 20 liters will be designed, constructed and operated at the Resodyn facililties to achieve this objective. In addition, laboratory scale experimentaton will be conducted to optimize the reacton conditions such as temperature, pressure, methanol or other aldohol to grease ratio and resident time. The AGCR, a ""fit for all"" reactor, will be domonstrated to be an enabling, cost competitive production technology for the synthesis of biodiesel and lubricants from trap grease and other types of wast grease in one step. It will convert both free fatty acid (FFA) and triglycerides from trap grease into these value-added products. Moreover, the proposed process will elliminate the use of solvents and catalysts and the generation of waste by-products. Provided basic feasibility is demonstrated, the strategy is to extend research to lubricants, special solvent and polyester monomer production, and to develop, design and fabricate a pilot scale AGCR during a Phase II project."
Low Permeability Polyimide Insulation,NNM05AB28C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2005,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Business Official,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Scott Coguill,,4067232222,scoguill@resodyn.com,"Resodyn Technologies proposes a new technology that enables the application of polyimide based cryogenic insulation with low hydrogen permeability. This effort supports the Vision for U.S. Space Exploration policy and the Exploration Systems Enterprise. This technology will benefit designers of cryogenic fuel tanks envisioned for new Earth-to-Orbit (ETO) Transportation vehicles. Specifically the need exists to reduce the loss of hydrogen through the walls of the proposed carbon/polymer composite cryogenic fuel tanks in order to achieve zero boiloff long-term storage capability. Resodyn Corporation's proposed use of its Thermal Spray Technology will enable the processing of engineered materials, high performance polymers, and high temperature foams that have not been possible to date. One example investigated will be a combination of polyimide micro-balloons in a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) matrix. Also contained in this foam would be a dispersion of reflective glass microspheres. This combination of materials provides insulation, a hydrogen barrier and a thermal radiation barrier. Foam samples will be fabricated and evaluated for physical and mechanical properties including density, compressive and shear strength, permeability, and insulative qualities. This new foam is referred to as Multi-functional Cryogenic Insulation (MCI)."
Development of an Acoustic Biological Shaker,1R43GM074287-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,124358.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,,4064975200,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. Mcadams,,4067232222,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of using ResonantAcoustics (low-frequency acoustic mixing) as the basis for developing a highly efficient laboratory scale ResonantAcoustic Biological Shaker (RBS). Conventional biological orbital shakers have substantial drawbacks that include low oxygen transfer capability and limited applicability when scaling up to stirred-tank bioreactors. The RBS, in contrast, will provide superior mass transfer (increased oxygen transfer and reduced mixing times). During the course of project, a new type of closure will be designed in order to take full advantage of the enhanced acoustic mixing. Operating characteristics of the RBS must be optimized to maximize the growth and product expression of biological cultures. Performance of the RBS will be compared to orbital shakers for bacterial, fungal, and animal cell cultures. It is anticipated that the RBS will be able to support dramatically increased biomass levels over orbital shakers due to substantially enhanced oxygen transfer. The advantage of the RBS over conventional technology increases as culture viscosity rises, which will be especially advantageous for fungal cultures. The availability of a substantially superior laboratory shaker will have a substantial impact in increasing the pace of process development for biotechnology labs developing new Pharmaceuticals."
Precise Automatic Image Coregistration Tools to Enable Pixel-Level Change Detection,NNS05AA07C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2005,2,568652.00,"Positive Systems, Inc.",713 East 13th Street,,Whitefish,MT,59937-0298,No,No,No,Cody A. Benkelman,Vice President,4068627745,cbenkelman@possys.com,Cody Benkelman,Principal Investigator,4068627745,cbenkelman@possys.com,"Automated detection of land cover changes between multitemporal images (i.e., images captured at different times) has long been a goal of the remote sensing discipline. Most technology in this area has focused on methods for detecting and identifying land cover or surface object changes in two or more images, but precise co-registration of images remains a key challenge. In fact, image-to-image registration and image-based change detection are intricately related, as the success of conducting both relies on the precision of the other; software that supports these functions should do so in an integrative manner. Image registration is the key factor influencing the success of detecting land cover changes at or near pixel scale. We will develop tools in the form of a ""software development kit"" (SDK) specifically optimized for precise co-registration of two or more images with minimal user interaction, with the primary motivation to enable change detection algorithms to focus on salient changes rather than highlight image registration errors. The SDK will be available to NASA at no cost, after which we will build user applications based on the SDK for commercial offering."
"A Miniature, High-Fidelity Imaging Spectrometer",FA8650-05-C-1815,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2005,2,750000.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Business Manager,4065863356,kehoe@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,President,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"The emerging generation of small, lightweight, and low-cost Uninhabited Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) promise greater portability and maneuverability, smaller radar cross-sections, and less monetary risk than their larger counterparts. While the role of hyperspectral imagers aboard aircraft and larger UAVs has been well recognized for target acquisition and intelligence gathering, technological advances are needed before these instruments are small and light enough to fly aboard this new generation of UAVs. This project will construct and evaluate an innovative hyperspectral design that leverages the asymmetry of push-broom designs to create an instrument with data fidelity comparable to proven airborne systems, but with a smaller footprint and lighter weight. Detailed ray-tracing performed during Phase I verified this performance claim and also led to a refinement of the original designs. Phase II will focus on the engineering, construction, alignment, calibration, and characterization of a breadboard prototype, followed by the delivery of an improved, second generation prototype for demonstration. Additionally, plans will be made for the construction and trial of a flight-ready unit with a major supplier of small UAVs."
Active frequency stabilized laser systems for high performance defense applications,W9113M-05-C-0157,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2005,2,749739.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Zachary Cole,Research Scientist,4069220334,zcole@scientificmaterials.com,"Highly frequency stable optical oscillators are a critical component in coherent detection systems, such as those utilized in range resolved Doppler imaging ladar and advanced photonic signal processing systems. The deployment of highly coherent master optical oscillators becomes increasingly complex in high vibration environments typical of aircraft and space vehicles. The objective of this SBIR effort is to develop a highly coherent diode laser system, based on active frequency stabilization to spatial-spectral (S2) sensor materials. These S2 sensors, manufactured by our company, provide ultra-narrow (~ 1 kHz ) solid state frequency references that are immune to external vibrations. In Phase I, computer based modeling tools for stabilizing a master oscillator to these S2 sensors were developed and their performance predictions were verified through experimental proof-of-concept demonstrations. During the Phase II effort, we will build and test a prototype, designed to meet specific MDA system needs. Work includes implementation of a digital servo control unit developed during Phase I and long term frequency stability circuit development for improved performance."
SBIR Phase II: Kits for the Detection of Bioterror Pathogens,0450469,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2005,2,499257.00,SensoPath,2100 Fairway Drive,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0001,Yes,No,No,Brenda D. Spangler,Dr,4065858192,brenda.spangler@sensopath.com,Brenda D. Spangler,Dr,4065858192,brenda.spangler@senopath.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project proposes to develop field deployable kits for the detection of bio-terror pathogens. These kits would consist of fluorescent-labeled antibodies directed against protein toxins expressed by bio-terror pathogens, relying for detection on strong antibody-antigen interactions and fast chromatographic discrimination using simple chromatography strips supplied with inexpensive pre-measured reagents. In Phase I project, new water soluble blue-emitting reporter fluorophores were synthesized that were extremely photo-stable and could be easily visualized under any type of light conditions. These fluorophores were conjugated to an antibody against Bacillus anthracis as the initial proof-of-concept, and methodology was developed to attach these reporter fluorophores to monoclonal, polyclonal or recombinant antibodies. The objectives of Phase II project are to optimize reagents and chromatography, to synthesize new fluorophores for multiplexed pathogen detection, to design and assemble prototype kits, and to test and validate the kits. The commercial application of this project will be in the area of homeland security. The proposed kits are expected to be inexpensive, versatile, and easy to use by relatively untrained first responders (such as police, firefighters, paramedics, hazmat personnel, other emergency response teams)."
GeneBeaker: Simulation software for teaching genetics,1R43DA019371-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,99784.00,SimBiotic Software,"1280 S. 3rd, Second Floor",,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,,,6172852583,,Eli Meir,,6172852583,MEIR@SIMBIO.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Genetics is one of the most fundamental and widely taught areas of biology, and its importance has increased even further with the advent of new technologies such as genome projects and gene chips, as well as recent discoveries of genetic influence in such areas as drug addiction. Yet genetics is an area that many biology students have trouble with. On this contract we will produce a prototype of a simulation program that will allow an instructor to set up a genetic system and give students experiments to perform within that system using common experimental tools. We will also write 2 laboratories within this prototype, one on classical Mendelian genetics and another on using modern tools to find genes affecting susceptibility to drug addiction. We will assess the effectiveness of the software for teaching students, and also survey students who use it to see if the software increases their enthusiasm for genetics research."
Real Time Proteomic Analysis of Peptides and Proteins,1R43HG003743-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,299600.00,"Snider Technology, Inc.","Snider Technology, Inc.",40 Arrowhead Trail,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,,,4065868100,,Ross Snider,,4069940211,rosss@ece.montana.edu,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Hylitech, Inc. proposes a solution to overcome a major computational bottleneck in proteomics-by building a dedicated low-cost supercomputer system that performs real time peptide and protein identification from mass spectral data. Current peptide and protein identification requires computational processing that lags mass spectral data acquisition by hours or even days. The utilization of an FPGA platform will allow matches between experimental data and possible peptides or modified peptides to be evaluated in real time, while data acquisition is in progress. Fast identification of peptides and modified peptides will allow more efficient use of scarce mass spectrometer time and enable a much deeper investigation to discover low abundance regulatory species in the proteome. This time and cost effective approach to proteomic data analysis will speed research, improve discovery of disease markers, facilitate development of more effective diagnostics, and foster the creation of personalized medicine. Real time analysis will be accomplished by designing a peptide processing unit (PPU) that will be replicated across FPGAs. A system level design will achieve the supercomputing performance required to provide a real-time solution. This will bring major acceleration of proteomic data analysis to biomedicine, while providing significant cost savings compared to conventional multi-microprocessor based systems."
Automatic Extraction of Urban Features from Terrestrial LIDAR Systems,W9132V-06-C-0003,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2005,1,70000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,Chief Executive Officer,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,Chief Operating Officer,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"The U.S. Army requires automated feature extraction (AFE) software for collecting very high-resolution 3D urban features from terrestrial LIDAR data to support the ground-based Warfighter operating in the urban battlespace. Advanced vehicle-mounted and man-portable terrestrial Light Imaging and Range Detection (LIDAR) systems capture accurate 3D measurements of the urban environment with spatial resolutions on the order of 5 centimeters or less [Blais, 2004]. The 3D imaging capability of these systems is negated, however, by a lack of commercial software tools capable of exploiting terrestrial LIDAR datasets [Shiode 2001]. Current approaches for creating high-resolution 3D urban models are expensive requiring thousands of man-hours to digitize feature geometries, assign textures to features and attribute features. The lack of robust AFE software tools for collecting geospecific urban features from terrestrial LIDAR systems directly impacts applications for facility reconnaissance, special operations planning and urban warfare decision-making. Visual Learning Systems, Inc. (VLS) has developed a LIDAR AFE system capable of extracting over 1,000 buildings per minute as 3D Shapefiles from airborne LIDAR. VLS' proven capability in developing commercial AFE software tools, and prior research experience with LIDAR, provides the Army with a proven partner for developing a 3D AFE solution for advanced terrestrial LIDAR systems."
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) Surface Feature Extraction Tool,N61339-05-C-0017,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,1,150000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David W. Opitz,Chief Executive Officer,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,Chief Operarting Officer,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"The United States Navy vision for Modeling and Simulation (M&S) includes making better analytical decisions, improving warfighting skills, and developing superior systems for maintaining the world's most powerful maritime forces for the joint force commanders. Over the past five years the potential for Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) data for the support Urban Warfare and various M&S initiatives has grown rapidly. LIDAR sensors capture the three-dimensional shape of the urban landscape at very high resolutions and accuracy. This resolution represents the character, or 3-D geometry, of the urban terrain, enabling precise line-of-sight, route analysis, cover and concealment, vulnerability assessment, and situational awareness to be performed. The data also provides the ability to extract objects from the scene such as individual buildings, trees, power lines, roads, and water. The Advanced LIDAR Exploitation System (ALES) program being conducted by the Joint Precision Strike Demonstration Project Office (JPSD-PO) will provide the M&S community with advanced database generation applications for the exploitation of LIDAR data. Visual Learning Systems, Inc. (VLS) was awarded the ALES contract by the JSPD-PO which will provide a significant advantage for implementing the Navy's Modeling and Simulation Master Plan."
Multiplex Fluorescent Dyes for Ultrasensitive Proteomics,1R41RR021790-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2005,1,400000.00,"ZDYE, LLC","ZDYE, LLC",2500 BIG BEAR RD,GALLATIN GATEWAY,MT,59730-9725,No,No,No,,,9496328125,,Edward A. Dratz,,4069944041,DRATZ@CHEMISTRY.MONTANA.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This STTR proposal describes collaborative research between Zdye LLC and Montana State University (MSU) to synthesize and demonstrate innovative ultrasensitive, fluorescent dyes for multicolor (multiplex) detection in proteomics. The resulting ""Zdyes"" are designed for vastly improved quantitation of differential protein expression and changes in protein post-translational modifications. Proteomics is a major frontier in biotechnology as proteins do most of the work in cells and protein activity is largely controlled by posttranslational modifications. While proteomics has enormous potential for revealing biological mechanisms, current methods fall short of fulfilling this promise. Zdyes will provide at least a hundred fold sensitivity increase over current technology for detection on 2D gels. Phase I will establish Zdye feasibility to improve recovery for enhanced identification of proteins and protein modifications by mass spectrometry, and for quantitative protein expression ratios with three-color channels. Phase II will carry out beta testing, and incorporate additional dye color channels to simultaneously monitor protein post-translational modifications. The Zdye/MSU research team has extensive relevant expertise and Zdye is prepared to produce and commercialize the resulting products. Zdyes will have immediate positive impact on diagnostic development and research in virtually all health fields, including preventative medicine, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer."
SBIR Phase II: Low-Voltage Poling of Waveguides in Nonlinear Optical Materials,0349758,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2004,2,499981.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,PI,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR Phase II project will develop the processing steps for the fabrication of highly quality periodically poled waveguides in potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP). Periodically poled waveguides enable highly efficient, quasi-phase matched (QPM), nonlinear optical wavelength conversion of continuous wave and high-peak power quasi- continuous lasers. The fabrication process, established during the Phase I effort, utilizes low-voltage pulses combined with a novel electrode configuration to periodically pole channel waveguides embedded in a KTP chip. The use of standard off-the-shelf KTP channel waveguides will significantly increase yields, allow greater design flexibility, and decrease manufacturing expenses while providing a large QPM conversion efficiency that will enable a range of commercially significant applications. Specific products include the frequency doubling of pulsed and continuous wave infrared diode lasers for use in bio- analytical instrumentation and fluorescent spectroscopy, waveguide-based difference frequency mixing modules for generating tunable, narrow band near-infrared sources for environmental monitoring, spectroscopy at hard-to-reach wavelengths, and all-optical switching in communication networks.
This project should result in efficient frequency doubling of diode lasers, which will
Have beneficial impacts in medical, environmental, and scientific applications. In the
Medical field, the availability of small, low power consumption, cost-competitive visible
Lasers will enable the creation of portable bio-analytical instrumentation (e.g. a bedside flow cytometry system). In the environmental field, small inexpensive spectroscopically useful infrared sources will enable new and improved remote sensing systems. Additionally, the KTP waveguide technology developed in this effort is expected to contribute to advanced research in a variety of fields including ultra short pulse wavelength conversion, development of waveguide optical parametric devices,
and the efficient generation of correlated photon pairs for quantum optical studies."
Ultra-Stable Miniature Seed Laser for High Power Nd:YAG Lasers,NNG04CB07C,NASA,NASA,STTR,2004,2,499974.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Phillip Battle,VP Technology,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,Principal Investigator,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"The goal of this effort is to develop a compact, rugged, electrically efficient, tunable semiconductor laser for the purpose of injection seeding Nd:YAG lasers in NASA lidar systems for remote sensing and atmospheric profiling. A highly stable low power seed laser plays a crucial role in these systems by keeping the high power, Q-switched, Nd:YAG laser at a fixed wavelength and single mode. In addition, the seed laser reduces shot-to-shot intensity fluctuations due to mode beating in the YAG laser, which cause damage to internal optics and reduce the laser?s lifetime. Current seed lasers are large, expensive, and suffer under vibration and field use. The proposed miniature seed laser combines optical Bragg waveguide structures and new semiconductor laser technology to create a narrow linewidth laser at the precise wavelength. The entire temperature-stabilized seed laser will be packaged in a robust one-inch-long fiber coupled housing for ultra-stable single frequency output in the face of external vibration and temperature fluctuations."
Monolithic micro-laser with KTP ridge waveguides for injection seeding high power lasers,NNL04AB38P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2004,1,67283.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Vice President,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Switzer Gregg,Principal Investigator,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"This NASA Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a technique to greatly improve the direct coupling of a diode laser to an optical waveguide with embedded Bragg grating using no intermediate lenses. The key innovation proposed for this SBIR effort is a method for generating adiabatic tapers at the input end of optical waveguides in potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP). This innovation will significantly reduce the size, weight and complexity of the Bragg stabilized laser directly addressing NASA?s need for a compact, rugged, electrically efficient, tunable laser for injection seeding high power lasers for lidar. By injecting the output of the single-frequency, cw, seed laser source into a high power laser, such as a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, longitudinal mode beating is eliminated that can cause random shot-to shot intensity fluctuations and excessive intra-cavity intensities that damage the internal optics in the laser cavity. The seed laser also enables high frequency stability and spectral purity from the high power host laser required by Doppler wind and atmospheric molecular lidar. A compact, robust seed laser is a critical component to extend the lifetime and achieve high frequency stability of high power laser systems used for lidar applications."
SBIR Phase I: High Performance Laser Deflector Using Stoichiometric Electro-Optic Materials,0339009,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2004,1,99959.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Tony Roberts,PI,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will use the electro-optic (EO) effect, in which an electric field changes the index of refraction of a nonlinear material, in a novel manner to create a beam deflector with very favorable properties for laser beam scanning and steering. Large angle deflections have been achieved through new multi-stage designs, and 10-GHz scan rates have recently been demonstrated. These designs can now be executed in a commercial product using recent advances in fabrication to improved nonlinear materials. In addition to making commercial manufacturing possible, these new stoichiometric materials should impart favorable properties to a laser deflector, including improved power handling and increased infrared and UV transparency.
This work is expected to advance the state-of-the-art with an electro-optic device that has so far not been commercially available. Electro-optic deflectors are predicted to compete quite successfully in the laser scanner market, offering superior performance in scan rate, deflection range, deflection efficiency, and power handling in a very small device. The fast scan rates and high power handling of the proposed EO deflector will be useful in for beam scanning in remote sensing applications. The deflector should be used to overcome existing limitations in free space communications and variable optical attenuators."
Deployable Micro Weather Sensor,N00039-04-C-0027,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,1,69993.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,John A. Bognar,President,4069949354,jbognar@anasphere.com,"Real-time meteorological data is becoming ever more critical to military operations. Such data should be available from as many locations around a theater of operation as possible. To that end, there is a need for compact weather sensors that can be quickly deployed by a wide variety of methods, ranging from high-performance aircraft to infantry soldiers. The resulting local weather data will be of use in many ways, such as the planning of sensor and weapon mixes, prediction of sensor performance, personnel preparation for operations, and in predicting the dispersion and lifetime of chemical and biological weapons. A unique micro weather sensor will be developed that is built around a patent-pending anemometer system. This anemometer system offers several very unique features that will not only allow the anemometer to function in environments that would prohibit the function of standard anemometers, but will also allow it to deliver additional meteorological data products. This anemometer is the heart of the proposed system, and Phase I development work will focus extensively on the miniaturization of this technology. The technology is also expected to have substantial commercial potential; the miniaturized form will expand these markets and open new possibilities for the technology."
Performance of Innovative Native Seed Harvester,2004-33610-15076,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2004,2,296000.00,"Arbuckle Ranch, Inc.","100 Poly Drive, Suite 155",,Billings,MT,59101,No,No,No,Maggie Arbuckle,Treasurer/Secretary,4066557983,arbuckle@bresnan.net,Lee Arbuckle,,4066557983,arbuckle@bresnan.net,"Every year natural and man-caused disturbances (wildfire, construction of highways and facilities, mining, noxious weeds infestation, and overgrazing) damage and destroy millions of hectares of native vegetation. These vast disturbances require restoration and federal entities emphasize the use of native plant materials. Without restorative intervention, land recovery may take decades, leaving ecosystems vulnerable to erosion, invasive plant and insect species, and diseases, and loss of productivity. Long term treatment plans call for reseeding native species, but seeds are unavailable in the required quantities. Restoration is constrained by limited supply and high cost of the seed of many difficult to harvest native grass species. Arbuckle Ranch Inc. proposes to test the commercial feasibility of a machine incorporating Arbuckle's patented technology. Technical feasibility was proven in Phase I by creating machine design features that: 1) improve the percent of seed recovery from desirable yet difficult to harvest native plant species, and 2) harvest seed from species that cannot be satisfactorily harvested by other means."
Robust Bearings and Gears,FA8650-04-M-5015,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2004,1,99850.00,"ARCOMAC SURFACE ENGINEERING, LLC",6575 Butler Creek Road,,Missoula,MT,59808 8656,No,No,No,Jeff Wisehart,Director of Special Operations,4065497451,jwisehart@am-eagle.com,Vladimir Gorokhovsky,Director of R&D,4065227620,vigase@aol.com,"Critical gears and engine bearings in our newest vertical thrust aircraft must operate with absolute reliability under high loads, high heat, corrosive salt air and intervals without any lubricant whatever. Current materials and coatings that meet some of these conditions fail when subjected to the others. Now a breakthrough in surface engineering technology can precisely control deposition of coatings at the level of vaporized atoms. It can deposit an atomically bonded, multiple layered, integrated coating combining different metal and ceramic materials, each with a different desired property. Engine parts with the multiplex coating that will be perfected and rigorously tested in this program will be durable and reliable under all of their extreme operating conditions. There is an enormous opportunity for future application to a wide range of military and civilian mechanical components that operate in severe, corrosive environments."
Linear Incendiary Device and Method of Prescribed Fire Ignition,2004-33610-15105,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2004,2,295400.00,Arctos Research,P.O. Box 728,,Plains,MT,59859,No,No,No,Jeff Reistroffer,Owner,4068265171,arctos@blackfoot.net,Jeff P. Reistroffer,,4068265171,arctos@blackfoot.net,"Solutions to help overcome the present limitations in conducting prescribed burning could help land managers in their efforts to accomplish needed fuels reduction in the forests. Opportunities exist for developing improvements in the methods and materials used in the ground-based ignition of prescribed fires. Improved ignition techniques could enable managers to conduct burns at times where weather, fuels and resource limitations would otherwise preclude burn activities, widening the presently limited window of opportunity for burning. It is the intent of the present research proposal to develop a Ground-Based, Line-Source Ignition System that provides an improved method for conducting prescribed burning. In particular, this project involves developing a Linear Incendiary Strand manufactured from pine resin. Use of this novel device will enhance burning opportunities by providing a means to generate high fire intensity through rapid burn strip ignition by ground personnel. The proposed ignition system provides a method for using improved convection engineering techniques to reduce the negative impacts of smoke on the nation's air quality. In addition, the proposed device offers a substitute for presently used petroleum products, and will allow ground crews a higher degree of safety while igniting prescribed fires."
Honey Bee Fast Response System for Broad Band Detection of Airborne Toxicants.,W81XWH-04-C-0013,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,1,120000.00,"BEE ALERT TECHNOLOGY, INC.",1620 RODGERS ST STE 1,,Missoula,MT,59802 1714,No,Yes,No,Jerry Bromenshenk,CEO,4065449007,BeeResearch@aol.com,Jerry Bromenshenk,CEO,4065449007,BeeResearch@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I project is to develop a broad band detection system for air toxicity. Our overall objective is to show that honey bee orientation and locomotor behaviors can be used as reliable and measurable indicators of certain airborne toxicants. Locomotor sufficiency and directional orientation are behaviors that should unambiguously indicate toxicant exposure. Nearly all airborne toxicants affect the sensory systems or neuromuscular coordination of honey bees, either through cuticular absorption or inhalation,. Above threshold exposures, neurological and motor impairment should progressively degrade efficiency of movement of bees toward a goal.
The resulting application builds upon our proven bee colony real-time monitoring and data delivery system. The proposed project introduces new features to:
(1) demonstrate that honey bee orientation and movement at the hive exhibit unique responses upon exposure to airborne toxicants,
(2) quantify dose-response relationships to the tested toxicant,
(3) determine lower threshold concentrations for measurable response;
(4) determine whether other environmental perturbations could elicit a similar behavioral response, and
(4)demonstrate that a bee colony will display measurable responses across a range of exposures in less than 30 minutes, over a two week demonstration period.
These studies will facilitate construction of semi-quantitative response profiles for a hazard evaluation system, and for benchmarking bee responses to existing human exposure risk data, resulting in a report on the efficacy of using bee behaviors to monitor health hazards from airborne toxicants, as well as a plan for a hive-mounted device that can be incorporated into our existing real-time monitoring/reporting systems, leading to Phase II application, and Phase III activities and self-sufficiency."
Honey Bee Fast Response System for Broad Band Detection of Airborne Toxicants.,W81XWH-04-C-0013,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,2,723230.00,"BEE ALERT TECHNOLOGY, INC.",1620 RODGERS ST STE 1,,Missoula,MT,59802 1714,No,Yes,No,Jerry Bromenshenk,CEO,4065449007,BeeResearch@aol.com,Jerry Bromenshenk,CEO,4065449007,BeeResearch@aol.com,"This project's objective is to develop honey bee colonies as broad band, wide area detectors of airborne toxicants. Phase I focused on identifying behavioral endpoints that assess the locomotor and task solving performance of 'exposed' foragers returning to the hive. Preliminary results indicate that speed of maze navigation and recognition of 'exposed' foragers by entrance guard bees hold promise for meeting USACEHR's specifications (SBIR A03-160) for real-time, fast response, air toxicity monitoring. In June 2004, we expect to accomplish a two-week demonstration of honey bee biomonitor response within 30 minutes to 1-3 chemicals of military relevance, with minimal false alarms. Upon successful completion of this objective before our Phase I contract ends in July, for Phase II we propose to quantify the receiver operating characteristics (probability of detection) of selected behavioral metrics to classes of chemicals, establish dose-response curves, address potential interferrents such as weather or deliberate countermeasure, and prototype a marketable, fully integrated, hive-mounted, multi-sensor system integrated with our existing (patent pending) electronic hives. This platform will allow integration of new sensor technologies, such as chip-based biomarkers/bioinformatics systems, as they become available. The honey bee fast response sensor system (HBFRS) should have extensive military, security, and civilian applications."
Phase II: VAM-Gro: Alternative Growth Media to Promote VAM Colonization,2004-33610-15115,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2004,2,296000.00,Bitterroot Restoration Inc.,445 Quest Lane,,Corvallis,MT,59828,No,No,No,Patrick Burke,President,4069614991,pat@bitterrootrestoration.com,Tim W. Meikle,,4069614991,timm@bitterrootrestoration.com,"VAM inoculum is commonly specified for large-scale plant production contracts throughout the United States, including revegetation efforts associated with fire rehabilitation, mine reclamation, conservation plantings, contaminated site cleanup, and other activities. These activities represent a continuous expenditure of public and private funds worth several hundred-million dollars annually. A major problem in the revegetation industry is the inability of container growers to consistently produce plant colonized by VAM. Despite the commercialization of VAM inoculum by the biotechnical industry, actual colonization of plants using standard nursery practices has resulted in consistently low colonization rates. The goal of Phase II research is to create a marketable growth media product termed ""VAM-Gro"" for the landscape and restoration/reclamation nursery industries based upon our Phase I research. In Phase II, we intend to demonstrate increased root biomass production under nursery conditions, increased field survival, and increased field growth rates for plants grown in VAM-Gro above industry standard growth media. In addition, we intend to develop an alternative colonization testing method that will be easily and economically integrated into production nursery operations."
Range Tech DSS: Decision Support System for Rangeland Health Monitoring,2004-33610-14343,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2004,1,79982.00,Bitterroot Restoration Inc.,445 Quest Lane,,Corvallis,MT,59828,No,No,No,Blaise Hartman,Chief Financial Officer,4069614991,pat@bitterrootrestoration.com,Tim W. Meikle,,4069614991,timm@bitterrootrestoration.com,"Current systems for acquiring and accessing rangeland health data are inadequate to meet the needs of an increasingly complex management process that requires public accountability. Traditional field-based data acquisition, such as visual assessment, quadrat, and point frame methods are highly subjective, time consuming or too costly to practically apply over large land management units. While the availability of remotely sensed data has expanded substantially with the use of satellite and aircraft mounted hyperspectral scanners, these products are expensive, lack flexibility, can be misinterpreted, and often lack the resolution required by land managers. The purpose of this project is to reduce the costs and improve the efficiency and objectivity in monitoring for rangeland health conditions and wildlife habitat assessments."
Biofilm Restoration for Contaminated Army Sites,W911NF-04-C-0107,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2004,1,0.00,"CENTER FOR INNNOVATION, INC.","305 West Mercury, Room 303, Suite E P.O.",,Butte,MT,59701,No,No,No,Will Goldberg,President,4067234061,goldberg@cfi-mt.com,Robin Gerlach,Assistant Research Professor,4069941840,robin_g@erc.montana.edu,"Many Unites States Army, and other Department of Defense (DoD) sites, are contaminated with a variety of contaminants including highly energetic compounds, such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), chlorinated aliphatics (such as trichloroethylene,TCE) and chlorinated aromatics. These compounds often persist in soil or groundwater for extended periods of time and present a toxicological risk to humans and the environment. During our Phase I research three microbial strains, known to degrade nitroaromatics and other environmental contaminants, were tested for their ability to degrade TNT in pure culture biofilms and as members of a complex biofilm community derived from a TNT contaminated soil. The ability of the pure cultures to form biofilms alone and as part of an undefined, mixed, consortium was compared to the TNT degradation ability of the soil biofilm consortium alone. While Phase I research was focused on the model contaminant TNT, Phase II investigations will be extended to other DoD contaminants of concern and will be performed at increasingly larger scale, including column experiments and and meso-scale reactors with contaminated soils from DoD sites."
Innovative Manufacturing Techniques for Polysaccharide-Protein Conjugate Vaccines,W81XWH-04-C-0025,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,1,120000.00,ENDOBIOLOGICS INTERNATIONAL CORP.,7151 Kestrel Drive,,Missoula,MT,59808,No,No,No,Dan DeBorde,Secretary/Treasurer,4065437909,ddeborde@endobiologics.com,Gary Gustafson,CEO/President,4065437909,ggustafson@endobiologics.com,"This project develops a conjugate vaccine against Shigella flexneri 2a utilizing cGMP-compatible manufacturing processes. The antigenic component of the vaccine is deacylated-polysaccharide from the bacterial LPS that has an average of one O-antigen repeat unit per polysaccharide molecule. The polysaccharide is deacylated by a biological process, and has a core structure with intact phophosphoryl groups. It is expected that phosphorylated core components will elicit antibodies that cross-react with LPS of other strains and species of Shigella that share these core epitopes. Phase I research studies will provide a cGMP-compatible method for producing the conjugate vaccine, and Phase I Option studies will evaluate the immunogenicity of the vaccine, and its potential to elicit cross-reactive antibodies against several serotypes of S. flexneri and against other Shigella species."
Innovative Manufacturing Techniques for Polysaccharide-Protein Conjugate Vaccines,W81XWH-04-C-0025,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,2,730000.00,ENDOBIOLOGICS INTERNATIONAL CORP.,7151 Kestrel Drive,,Missoula,MT,59808,No,No,No,Dan DeBorde,Secretary/Treasurer,4065437909,ddeborde@endobiologics.com,Gary Gustafson,CEO/President,4065437909,ggustafson@endobiologics.com,"There is need for a commercial vaccine against shigellosis because all groups of pathogenic Shigella have acquired resistance to antibiotics. Shigella conjugate vaccines have proven safe and protective in previous clinical trials, but obstacles associated with large-scale manufacturing of these subunit vaccines have apparently hindered commercial development. The present project uses a new and simpler technology for manufacturing shigella conjugate vaccine. The goals of the project are to develop cGMP-manufacturing conditions for the new technology and to use these conditions to produce a clinical lot of refined, conjugate vaccine against Shigella flexneri 2a. The vaccine will contain completely deacylated polysaccharide (PS) from S. flexneri 2a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and a carrier protein called Proteinase 1. To produce the vaccine, whole cells of S. flexneri 2a are fed to a culture of Dictyostelium cells. During growth on the bacteria, Dictyostelium cells synthesize Proteinase 1 and excrete PS molecules. After bacteria have been depleted in the culture, PS is harvested and purified from the culture media, and Proteinase 1 is extracted and purified from the Dictyostelium cells. The conjugate vaccine is constructed by covalent linkage of purified PS molecules to sugar-phosphate linker groups that occur as natural post-translational groups in Proteinase 1."
Anthrax Vaccine Formulations Combining PA/Spore Epitopes,1R43AI058536-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,728648.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,Michael Mccue,,4065852733,MICHAEL.MCCUE@LIGOCYTE.COM,Aiyappa M. Palecanda,,4065852733,aiyappa.palecanda@ligocyte.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Pulmonary anthrax, a rare but extremely severe form of anthrax, is initiated by phagocytosis of Bacillus anthracis spores by alveolar macrophages (AMs). The current, Protective Antigen (PA) based, vaccine requires several boosts, is reactogenic and its efficacy, based on animal exposure studies, has been variable. Spore antigens, by themselves, as vaccine components enhance protection against experimental infection. As evident by the illicit dissemination of anthrax spores to the public in the fall, 2001, the intense efforts to identify new therapeutics and vaccines are warranted. A defined spore component could dramatically enhance the efficiency of a vaccine over the currently available product.
Hypothesis: We draw upon prior studies to formulate the hypothesis to be tested: 1) specific antibodies to anthrax spore antigen(s) will confer passive protection and promote AM killing of opsonized spores; 2) vaccine preparations containing these antigens, in conjunction with PA, are likely to confer protective immunity to inhalation anthrax.
Research Design and Methods;
Aim 1: Produce monoclonal antibodies to B. anthracis spores. The studies will use Sterne strain (pXO 1+, pXO2-) B. anthracis spores to immunize mice and produce monoclonal antibodies. Anti-spore antibodies will be selected by using whole spore in an ELISA. Antibodies will be grouped according to antibody specificity and isotype.
Aim 2: Select antibodies that can transfer passive protection in vivo and that promote killing by human and murine AMs in vitro. Anti-spore antibodies will be screened for their ability to promote spore killing by AMs as measured by colony forming units following phagocytosis. In parallel, anti-spore antibodies will be screened for their ability to confer passive protection against B. anthracis spore challenge in mice.
Aim 3: The antibodies selected in Aim 2 will be used to isolate peptide mimetics from phage display libraries. Peptides will be tested for their ability, with appropriate carrier, to generate anti-spore antibodies. The validation of the isolated peptides and variants, in conjunction with PA, in virulent inhalation challenge studies will be part of an SBIR phase II proposal.
Significance: This research is relevant to the potential to develop novel vaccine formulations and therapeutics to counter inhalation anthrax."
SBIR Phase I: Virion Capsulated Nanopowders for Dielectric Applications,0340357,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2004,1,100000.00,"MicroPowder Solutions, LLC.",425 N 5Th Street W.,,Missoula,MT,59802,Yes,No,No,Yuval Avniel,,4065504647,Yavniel@micropowdersolutions.com,Yuval Avniel,PI,4065504647,Yavniel@micropowdersolutions.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is for a novel methodology to produce nanodimensional formulation additives for use in the passive components industry. Presently available materials are rapidly reaching the point of diminishing return in terms of fired grain sizes, microstructural control and electrical performance. Given the ever-increasing demands of the electronics industry, novel solutions enabling next generation passive components must be developed. Of particular interest to this work are dielectric formulations for the multi-billion dollar multi-layered capacitor industry. The utilization of a novel virion encapsulated nanopowder production technology to produce formulation additives for this marketplace is proposed. Virion encapsulation uses self-assembling protein cages as scaffolding for nanoparticle production. Anticipated benefits of the research include the development of a method to produce nanodimensional multi-metal oxides, development of a novel nanodimensional dielectric system and definition of the processing window for nanodimensional passive component production.
The technology being developed in this proposal is a direct application of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology impacts the fundamental nature of the products it enables. Objects become smaller, faster, stronger, lighter, possessing entirely new properties and even combinations of properties not otherwise available. The application of nanotechnology permits both the production of novel products and entirely new manufacturing paradigms."
Bacillus Mycoides: Systemic Induced Resistance to Control Cucurbit Pathogens,2004-33610-14364,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2004,1,79875.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Stephen P. Bryant,Founding Member,4068290669,bryants@montana.com,Clifford Bradley,,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"Montana Microbial Products is working to commercially develop a selected bacterium that controls plant diseases. The bacterium was isolated from sugar beets. When sprayed on sugar beets in filed trials, the bacterium induces a series of defense mechanisms in the plant, referred to as systemic induced resistance, that controls an important fungal disease. This same mechanism also controls a bacterial disease of sugar beets and greenhouse trials indicate the same mechanism controls a fungal disease of cucumber. This phase 1 SBIR project will evaluate SIR and control of representative fungal bacterial and viral diseases in cucumber as a model for a commercially important plant/pathogen system. Demonstrating control of biologically diverse pathogens would expand potential markets and establish bacterial SIR as an important new microbial control for plant diseases."
Development of a High Performance Bioreactor,2R44GM061440-03A2,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,750001.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,,4067232222,LCFARRAR@RESODYN.COM,Todd A. Mcadams,,4067232222,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The Phase II project specific aim is to perform research to develop and demonstrate an advanced, High Performance Bioreactor (HPBR) fermentation technology that enhances growth characteristics and product expression for various cellular organisms, e.g., bacteria, fungi, yeast, plant, insect and mammalian cells. The HPBR is based upon a novel low-frequency resonant, low-shear mixing technology that has been demonstrated to provide greatly increased oxygen transfer rates and considerably improved mixing compared to conventional technology. The work conducted in Phase I provided compelling evidence that the HPBR is an improved method for the growth and volumetric productivity of a broad range of organisms and pharmaceutical products. The technology has application as both a discovery tool and as an efficient method for production of biopharmaceuticals. The major commercialization opportunity for the HPBR is the culture of hybridoma cells for the production of monoclonal antibodies (MAb). The market for MAb's is projected to grow at a compound rate of 20% over the next 10 years, to $6 billion and serious shortage of production capacity is foreseen. The HPBR technology offers an order of magnitude increase in process intensity compared to conventional stirred bioreactors."
SBIR Phase I: Powder-Powder Mixing and Powder-Liquid Mixing by a Novel High-Intensity Vibrational Mixer,0419718,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2004,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Aaron Cook,PI,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,"This Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of using high intensity resonant vibrational energy as the basis for developing an efficient, scalable mixer for solid-solid and liquid-solid powder processing applications. Conventional powder mixers are ineffective when mixing very small particles or when loading particles into viscous liquids. Currently available mixers cannot reach the level of homogeneity that industry demands. Vibratory mixers have the capacity to meet these mixing demands, but the existing technology is limited in intensity and has not been shown to be scalable. This project will extend this technology to particle mixing applications required for the powder processing industry.
The broader impacts from this technology could enhance the scientific understanding of solid-solid and liquid-solid mixing in a high intensity resonant vibrational field. More generally, the results will have scientific merit that can be extended to other complex, nonlinear dynamic systems. The resulting technological benefits will allow on site mixing and color blending in addition to custom formulation of nanocomposite coatings. By enabling more powder processing applications, new high performance materials will be realized. Replacing conventional coating techniques with powder coating applications will reduce VOC emissions substantially. This technology could enhance the durability of maintenance type coatings, which in turn will gain in popularity due to improved quality and functionality. The initial commercial targets of this technology will be the polymer powder coating and particle-loaded polymer industries."
A Vibrationally-enhanced Aquaculture Treatment System (VEATS) for Water Reuse and Effluent Management,DG133R-04-CN-0137,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2004,1,50000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Joel Pierce,Chemical Engineer,4067232222,jpierce@resodyn.com,"Because of the severe impact of diseases on production and the environmental devastation created by many commercial aquaculture effluents, modern methods of intensive aquaculture are evolving which rely heavily on recirculating the water. This proposal addresses the need for a modular, integrated technology in closed-loop aquaculture operations by enhancing the performance of a fluidized ion exchange bed that removes ammonia by the addition of the low-frequency vibrational agitation, which also accelerates oxygenation and gas stripping, and ensures efficient use of ozone as a disinfectant. Additionally, the agitation will prevent fouling of the media with organic material, which compromises the ability of the media to adsorb ammonia. The vibrationally-enhanced aquaculture treatment system (VEATS) will provide an economical improvement that will enable a series of modular, integrated treatment units to function with the same efficiency as a much larger custom system designed specifically for cold water or warm water production."
A Novel Acoustic Biodiesel Producton Process From Animal Fats and Waste Grease,EP-D-04-023,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2004,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064975254,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Fangxiao Yang,Chemical Engineer,4064975254,fxyang@resodyn.com,"The goal of this Phase I research project is to demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative Acoustic Biodiesel Synthesis Reactor (ABSR) with a biodiesel production cost of less than $0.30 per gallon over the cost of feedstock. The target feedstocks are brown, yellow, tallow, restaurant recycled, and trapped grease with high free fatty acid (FFA). The final target biodiesel costs will total $1.00 per gallon for those animal fats and waste grease as raw materials. The proposed ABSR technology will: (1) enable one-step conversion of both FFA and triglycerides to fatty acid methyl ester (biodiesel); (2) eliminate the need for solvents or catalysts, which will avoid production of wastes and greatly simplify separations and purification; (3) enable the use of the low-cost agricultural byproducts, such as animal fats and spent grease that contains high FFA, as opposed to soya oil, which is preferred in conventional biodiesel processes; (4) enhance reaction rate and reduce reaction resident time; and (5) simplify the overall process and allow for significant capital and operational costs.
Currently, the United States produces 20 billion pounds of plant oils and 11 billion pounds of animal fat and recycled grease annually. Animal fat represents a potential biodiesel output of 1.5 billion gallons compared to the estimated current production of 230 million gallons. A truly competitive technology that can cost-effectively convert fats to biodiesel will enable Resodyn Corporation to capture a substantial portion of this untapped market. Concerns related to feeding animal byproducts (already banned in Europe) will increase the incentive to convert fats to biodiesel and further strengthen the market potential of the technology.
Resodyn has discussed the proposed ABSR with Kenosha Beef International, which has been funding biodiesel process development (conventional) by Resodyn at Resodyn┐s facilities. Kenosha Beef is one of the top 10 U.S. beef companies, with an annual production of 400 million pounds of beef. Kenosha has entered into a joint venture (JV) called BIOsource Fuels, LLC, with Resodyn exploiting the ABSR technology at its rendering facilities, should it prove successful. The JV has supported the development of a pilot plant (2 to 10 gallon per hour processing rate) to evaluate conventional and advanced biodiesel technologies. Demonstrating successful and economic production of biodiesel using the pilot plant will provide a solid platform to the JV, which will be used to market the technology throughout the rendering industry, as well as to the vegetable oil industry."
Hypoxia-Perfusion Bioreactor for Stem Cell Applications,1R43HL072655-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,155134.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawerence Farrar,,4067232222,,Todd A. Mcadams,,4067232222,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Cord blood (CB) cells are a desirable source of stem cells for transplantation because their collection poses no donor impact and they would facilitate the creation of an ethnically diverse pool of donor cells. However, the small quantity of stem cells and the extended cytopenias associated with the use of CB cells for transplantation limit broad application to adult patients. Ex vivo protocols that enable expansion of repopulating stem cells have been developed, but require many weeks of culture, and the use of multiple manipulations and vessels that increase the risk of contamination and limit reproducibility. In order to utilize recent discoveries that low oxygen levels are favorable to stem cell expansion, Resodyn Corporation has developed the hypoxia-perfusion bioreactor (HPB), which is designed to provide controlled delivery of both oxygen and fresh medium to stem cell cultures. It is the aim of this proposal to demonstrate use of the HPB as a simple, inexpensive stem cell enrichment device, and as a stem cell expansion device that can increase the rate and quality of stem cell expansion using current state-of-the-art expansion protocols. In Phase I, feasibility will be demonstrated and the optimal oxygen levels established. In Phase II, cytokine/oxygen interactions will be explored, and a scale-up of protocols and hardware to a clinically-ready system will be accomplished. Phase III will consist of clinical trials to test the efficacy of expanded stem cells. The HPB system has significant long-term commercial potential both in the laboratory as a tool to facilitate development of stem cells protocols, and in the clinic as a component of both CB transplantation and other pre-emerging stem cell protocols of the neural, hematopoietic, and mesenchymal lineages."
Fiber optic power meter with optical detector in a detachable probe.,N00178-04-C-3066,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,1,69999.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Matt Egloff,Mechanical Engineer,4067232222,megloff@resodyn.com,"The US Navy has an immediate and compelling need for a handheld, battery powered, fiber optic power meter with a remote optical detector. Existing handheld meters have the optical detector mounted on the main unit. Such meters often do not fit in the tight spaces found in ships, planes, and other vehicles. A novel fiber optic power meter design with a remote optical detector probe is proposed for use in these tight spaces. This design will address and correct the shortcomings of every other handheld fiberoptic power meter currently available. The detector will employ a universal fiberoptic adapter. This will allow it to couple to any fiberoptic connector. This meter will determine the wavelength and set itself accordingly, eliminating this issue as a potential for measurement error. The detector will be attached to the main meter unit by a flexible, pliable, conduit similar to that used on a gooseneck lamp. Combined with a base that firmly attaches to almost any surface, the detector is easily positioned, and stays in place. The unit will be waterproof and impact resistant. The proposed unit addresses all the current US Navy requirements for a Fiber Optic Power Meter."
Mechanical Induced Resonant Mixing for Islet Separation,1R43DK069124-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,129608.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,4067232222,,Fangxiao Yang,,4067232222,FXYANG@RESODYN.COM,"The proposed research is aimed to develop a mechanically-induced resonant mixing process for pancreas islet cell separation. The proposed study incorporates a unique mixing technology into a Resonant Enhanced Enzyme Tissue Digester (REETD) design. The REETD provides a novel method to enhance pancreas digestion and islet cell releasing processes without the use of foreign objects, such as marble or glass beads contacting the tissue. The technology provides enhanced mass transfer of digesting enzyme molecules into the pancreas and improves heat transfer of'a heated digesting solution'. These combined effects will greatly increase the tissue digestion rate and shorten the digesting time. Hence, both the islet cell recovery and their viability will be enhanced. Composition of the digestion enzyme solution will be optimized for fast release of islet cells, while preserving integrity of the islets. The post-digestion purification process will also be optimized and standardized by comparing various cell purification processes and methods. Because of the improved micromixing and mass transport properties that are created by the resonant mixing phenomena, the REETD technology is expected to:
? Increase enzymatic reaction efficiency
? Decrease digesting time
? Increase islet cell viability ? Improve islet recovery yield
? Preserve islets integrity
? Increase the separation reproducibility
The proposed work is designed to establish a fundamental understanding of the governing mechanisms for applying mechanically-induced resonant mixing technology to reactor design aimed to improve the efficiency of enzymatic pancreas
digestion and islet cell recovery process. This work meets the topic narrative for National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases - Islet Transplantation subtopic C
""Development of methods to increase the yield and reproducibility of ....... ""
The proposed REETD technology development will be combined with enzyme composition optimization and, cell separation ant-purification methodology optimization. Commercially available collagenase and other digesting enzymes are ideal candidates for the study, but with some purification before their use. A salient feature of the resonant mixing technology is its capacity as compact and flexible tissue digestion reactor for a broad range of cell separation and purification processes."
Acoustically-Enhanced Myogenic Cell Culture,1R43AR049997-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,119233.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd A. Mcadams,,4067232222,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The use of human muscle cells for tissue engineering applications holds significant promise for new treatments of muscle-cell disorders, organ repair, and gene therapy. With the enabling advances in biology and immunology nearing fruition, the next challenge to overcome is the simple and economical production of large numbers (approximately 10/11 cells) of adherent-dependent muscle cells. The problem is succinctly summarized by one of the leading research groups in the muscle-cell transplantation field:
""The major problem encountered in myoblast culture scale-up is that these primary, anchorage-dependent cells are known to be particularly sensitive to hydrodynamic stresses and to grow very slowly, if at all, on surfaces exposed to even minute fluid movement.""
Resodyn Corporation intends to develop novel tissue culture methods to enable the efficient production of shear-sensitive primary adherent cell types for cellular therapy applications. The specific aim of this Phase I proposal is to demonstrate enhanced myogenic cell culture productivity (compared to conventional techniques) through the use of acoustically-agitated microcarrier culture. The potential therapeutic applications of muscle cells and muscle-derived stem ceils are broad, and include treatment of muscular dystrophies, use as a vehicle for gene therapy protocols, repair of damaged heart tissue, incontinence repair, artificial blood vessels, and repair of bone and cartilage defects. These novel tissue culture methods will be based on the use of ResonantSonics(c)(RS), a new method of mixing that utilizes propagation of low-frequency acoustic energy waves through a liquid medium. While providing superior mass transfer (increased oxygen transfer and reduced mixing times) to standard impeller- or spinner-based systems, RS dramatically reduces the amount of fluid shear stress experienced by cells and particles in the liquid medium. It is therefore proposed to utilize RS as the basis for a highly productive acoustically mixed cell culture system for the large scale production of human myogenic cells. In order to achieve this goal, the proposed research will examine the proper acoustic intensity, microcarrier type, and microcarrier density necessary to achieve maximal growth of primary myogenic cells. An optimized acoustic culture system will be compared to current state-of-the-art protocols to demonstrate superior efficacy. Successful feasibility demonstration of this technique will have substantial additional utility for the production of other types of primary and immortalized adherent cells."
Precise automatic image coregistration tools to enable pixel-level change detection,NNS04AA28C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2004,1,69246.00,"Positive Systems, Inc.",713 East 13th Street,,Whitefish,MT,59937-0298,No,No,No,Cody A. Benkelman,Principal Investigator,4068627745,cbenkelman@possys.com,Cody A. Benkelman,Principal Investigator,4068627745,codyb@possys.com,"Automated detection of land cover changes between multitemporal images has long been a goal of the remote sensing discipline. Most research in this area has focused on methods for detecting and categorizing changes captured by two or more images [Jensen, 1991, Singh, 1989; Coppin and Bauer, 1996], but precise coregistration of images is required and remains a key challenge [Dai and Khorram, 1998, Stow and Chen, 2002, Verbyla and Boles, 2000]. This SBIR project team proposes to develop a software package specifically optimized for automatic and precise coregistration of two or more images, which will in turn enable change detection algorithms to focus on salient changes rather than highlight image registration errors. In accordance with this subtopic?s guidance to ??focus on the systems engineering aspect of application development rather than fundamental research??, our project will emphasize integration of state of the art methods to create a flexible, robust, and easy to use tool. Presuming success through Phase II, this will enable NASA researchers and unsophisticated users to minimize or eliminate false ?changes? caused by image coregistration errors and thus increase utilization of Earth Science observations from NASA sensors and other data sources (IKONOS, aerial photography, etc.)."
Natural feedstocks for diversity oriented synthesis,1R41GM072158-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2004,1,100024.00,"PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA, INC.",,,ALBERTON,MT,59820-0010,No,No,No,Nigel Priestley,,4068640022,NIGEL.D.PRIESTLEY@PROMILIAD.COM,Dennis L. Wright,,6036466481,DENNIS.L.WRIGHT@DARTMOUTH.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This STTR application requests funds to support the transfer of specific synthetic expertise and methodologies from the Wright Group at Dartmouth College to investigators at Promiliad Biopharma in an effort to reduce Promiliad's REBACS strategy to the level of practice. These efforts will focus on the use of a high-complexity feedstock, nonactic acid, as the point of departure for diversity oriented synthesis. Nonracemic (+) and (-) nonactic acid will be produced at Promiliad through a process involving fermentation, recombinant biochemical and chemical technologies. Preparative amounts of these compounds will be provided to the Wright group for conversion to specific compounds that will be examined as new pharmaceutical leads at Promiliad. The main focus will relate to the synthesis of a new class of macrolides known as the nonactolides. These compound have been designed with the express purpose of mimicing the structure of the macrolide antibiotics in an attemp to identify new lead antibiotics that target the bacterial ribosome. First generation compounds will be prepared by the Dartmouth workers and provided to Promiliad for testing. A second, parallel effort, will focus on the conversion of nonactic acid to a new class of beta-turn mimetics known as ketide amino acids. These compounds are designed to mimic specific structural features common to bioactive peptides for use in peptidomimetic-based drug discovery. These compound will be similar to the currently employed sugar amino acids but offer specific advantages in cost effectiveness and synthetic flexibility. The final initiative in this proposal is to develop chemical methodoogies to amplify the diversity inherently present in nonactic acids. These basic studies will focus on methods to incorporate additional sites of reactive functionality into the natural scaffold. Integration of these diversity-expanded building blocks into the previously discussed designs will greatly increase the diversity and magnituted of the compound we will be able to use in our lead discovery program."
"A Down-Hole Probe for Real-Time Ore Grade Assessment in ""Look Ahead"" Mining",DE-FG02-03ER83766,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2004,2,750000.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael R. Kehoe,Dr.,4065863356,kehoe@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,Dr.,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"73147-The removal, sorting, disposal, and treatment of waste rock in mining operations are expensive processes, wasteful of energy, hazardous, and environmentally damaging. The best possible remedy is to avoid creating the waste rock in the first place. This could be accomplished with existing mining techniques if ┬┐look-ahead┬┐ ore grading were used to evaluate unmined rock in real time. This project will develop a down-hole sensor that will use recently developed optical techniques with induced polarization and resistivity sensors, to provide look-ahead ore grade assessment. The probe will allow miners to assess the local ore grade before blasting, thereby enabling selective mining. In Phase I, proof-of-principle demonstrations showed that a down-hole probe for hyperspectral imaging will provide good spatial resolution. An improved design eliminated the need for moving parts. Measurements taken on ore samples indicate induced polarization measurements will indicate ore grade. In Phase II, a prototype down-hole sensor system will be built, calibrated, and tested. The system will be evaluated in an underground platinum/palladium mine to grade ore in real-time. Finally, benefits provided by the down-hole system will be documented, refinements in the system will be made, and the range of applications will be expanded to include gold mining. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The down-hole probe, initially targeted for ┬┐look-ahead┬┐ mining applications, should enable selective mining and local morphology mapping. The system should decrease the amount of waste rock generated, improve mine safety, decrease energy usage, improve productivity; and decrease the environmental impacts of mining. The technology should become increasingly important as near-surface ore bodies are depleted and smaller, deeper ore bodies must be found."
"A Miniature, High-Fidelity Imaging Spectrometer",FA8650-04-M-1652,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2004,1,99999.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Business Manager,4065863356,kehoe@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,President,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"The role of Uninhabited Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the military is growing rapidly and advances in technology are allowing the UAVs to become smaller, lighter, and carry more sophisticated sensors and instrumentation. While the use of hyperspectral imagers aboard UAVs has been shown to possess great potential for target acquisition and battlefield intelligence gathering, current hyperspectral systems are too large and heavy to be incorporated into the emerging generation of small, low-cost UAVs. This document proposes an innovative hyperspectral imager design that leverages the inherent asymmetry of push-broom hyperspectral imagers to decrease point-imaging aberrations associated with other miniature, large-aperture hyperspectral imager designs, resulting in higher spectral and spatial sensor fidelity than previously possible in very small systems. To verify the performance of the proposed system, detailed ray-trace modeling will be done and the performance of the new design will be compared to an optimized Offner design. Radiometric modeling of the system will be performed and mechanical drawings for a prototype instrument will be created. The anticipated result of this effort is a hyperspectral imager that is much smaller and lighter than current instruments yet maintains the performance characteristics of proven airborne hyperspectral imagers."
STTR Phase I: A New Hyperspectral Imaging Spectrometer,0419647,NSF,NSF,STTR,2004,1,99999.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Rand Swanson,,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,PI,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I research project will develop a hyperspectral imaging spectrometer for high-throughput, low-light biomedical imaging. This instrument will collect optical spectra for hundreds of picture elements (pixels) simultaneously from a small working distance, enable multiplexing with fluorescent dyes that have overlapping spectra, avoid light losses from bandpass filters, and allow accurate removal of fluorescent background. Although spectral imaging instruments are available for microscopic applications and for remote sensing from the air, instruments with sufficient spatial and spectral resolution for fluorescent gel scanning or multi-well plate reading of signals from cells is very limited. The proposed instrument will fill this gap with an innovative optical design that utilizes the asymmetry of ""push broom"" imaging spectrometers to efficiently gather light and greatly reduce optical aberrations. The commercial application of this project will be in the area of biomedical imaging. The proposed instrument will be valuable in biomedical research, disease diagnosis, and drug development."
Multi-band Range and Doppler Processing Using S2-CHIP Technology,W9113M-04-P-0085,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2004,1,99995.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Randy R. Reibel,Research Scientist,4065853772,rwe@scientificmaterials.com,"The scope of this proposed effort is to design and demonstrate a multi-band (S and X), wide instantaneous bandwidth (>1 GHz S-band and >2 GHz at X-band) range processor utilizing S2-CHIP technology. S2-CHIP, termed for spatial spectral coherent holographic integrating processor, is an analog optical signal processor that has the ability to process coherent multi-band, ultra-wide-bandwidth radar return signals in real time for range and Doppler target discrimination and identification. The proposed proof-of-concept demonstration, along with device modeling and analysis, will show the capability of the S2-CHIP technology to simultaneously process these bands in one volume of S2 material and provide validated projections of the performance of such an ultra-wideband coherent processor. We will work with MDA on important system specifications, such as types of broadband codes, bandwidths and RF frequencies, as well as to identify system critical performance metrics. Utilizing current S2-CHIP models, we will simulate our systems specific performance and compare it with demonstrated results. Under Phase II we will begin design and development of a full system prototype that will enable multi-band range and Doppler extraction."
Active frequency stabilized laser systems for high performance defense applications,W9113M-04-P-0086,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2004,1,99997.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Zachary Cole,Research Scientist,4065853772,rwe@scientificmaterials.com,"This proposed Phase I project is aimed at developing a turn-key highly-coherent laser system for commercial and high-performance military applications. The core technology of the proposed system is based on regenerative spectral hole burning (RSHB) materials. RSHB materials currently provide the narrowest optical resonance recorded in a solid state material. The ultra-narrow resonant structure of RSHB materials is immune to external vibrations, making this technology ideal for systems operating in high vibration environments typical of aircraft and naval vessels. In these high-vibration environments, traditional optical frequency references are susceptible to failure. This proposed effort will concentrate on device development in three areas that are crucial to bring this technology to a commercial state including: 1) RSHB frequency discriminator model verification for operational tuning of the device parameters for improved performance; 2) simulation and analysis of a digital servo control design; and 3) system component analysis leading to down selection for the commercial product. Successful completion of these efforts will enable a system prototype to be built and tested in phase II of this project that will achieve kHz linewidths in a robust and highly deployable package."
Biological Polymer-Based Green Adhesives from Renewable Resources,2004-33610-14384,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2004,1,79767.00,Specialty Biopolymers Corporation,"524 Professional Dr., Suite E",,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Anthony Haag,,4069941732,ahaag@montana.edu,Marc W. Mittelman,,7819303003,m.mittelman@comcast.net,"Specialty Biopolymers Corporation (SBC) is a Montana-based company that is developing microbial extracellular polymers (EPS) as environmentally friendly wood products adhesives. SBC will utilize bacterial EPS synthesis in the development of novel adhesives through biological processes, exploiting our knowledge of biological adhesion processes. Preliminary test results show that the adhesive shear strength of the SBC candidate EPS is 2,000 psi on maple at 50% RH, approximately equivalent to that of an industry standard wood adhesive. Existing wood adhesives are derived from synthetic, petroleum-based materials. These products often contain volatile organics (VOCs) and other toxic chemicals. As wood adhesives, bacterial exopolymers distinguish themselves from all other products through their synthesis using renewable agricultural products, the absence of VOCs and other toxic chemicals, and favorable costs of production. Replacement of VOC- and other toxic chemical-containing synthetic wood adhesives will: 1) reduce the need for cabinet makers and other wood crafters to construct and maintain expensive ventilation systems to protect workers from VOC vapor intoxication, 2) reduce worker exposure in manufacturing plants to toxic materials, 3) eliminate the generation of toxic waste products, 4) provide health benefits to consumers with chemical sensitivities, and 5) create a new market for agricultural feedstocks. SBC will utilize bacterial extracellular polymer synthesis in the development of novel adhesives through biological processes."
SBIR Phase II: Discovery Analyst: A Data Mining System for Image Databases,0349736,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2004,2,500000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,Stuart Blundell,,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,PI,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Program Phase II project will develop a highly innovative data mining software tool that is capable of mining imagery and spatial information stored in a database management system (DBMS). Billions of dollars have been spent in converting the world's vast supply of paper maps into digital, geographically referenced, data for geographic information systems (GIS) applications because location matters in almost every instance of decision-making for both government agencies and private sector businesses. The proliferation of relational, spatial, and now visual data from high-resolution satellites, all stored in a common DBMS architecture, offers organizations the opportunity for knowledge discovery in databases; however, the technical challenges of maintaining, navigating, and mining these data are formidable. Current workflow approaches are disjointed and exclusive of image data. The product resulting from this project will allow all of the data to be queried and mined in a holistic workflow approach yielding potential useful discoveries through its primary innovations not presently available in data mining software; 1) Seamless integration of data mining and feature extraction workflows, 2) Mining content of high-resolution earth imagery stored in spatial databases, 3) Cleanup of GIS databases, and 4) Advanced query generation and data mining technology.
Market research confirms that companies are investing in data mining software and high- resolution commercial satellite imagery. The proposed product will have commercial applications in both traditional GIS application areas (forestry, defense, civil government, agriculture) and emerging vertical markets for GIS applications (banking and financial, telecommunications, security, manufacturing, retail and healthcare. There is a powerful demand for the knowledge acquisition vital to all location-based government decision-making processes. This significantly impacts the quality of management in our national security, resource handling, and the quality of our environment."
SBIR Phase I: Filtering Objectionable Imagery,0340384,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2004,1,100000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,Stuart Blundell,,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,PI,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project describes a new and innovative approach for filtering objectionable image content distributed on the Internet. As Internet usage in the workplace has increased, companies have had to deal with issues such as loss of productivity, unnecessary bandwidth usage and legal liability due to employees viewing objectionable image content. This project provides an automated, intelligent, object recognition solution that understands objectionable image content based on attributes beyond, for example, skin color. The research leverages the award-winning machine learning technology for object-recognition in imagery. The methodology is widely recognized within the industry as the first instance of an adaptive software agent technology capable of object recognition through both spectral and spatial processing of image attributes. This project will leverage this technology to develop a visual content filter. The system will not only be able to filter objectionable imagery, it will also provide solutions for filtering any image content, or inversely, providing a user-specific profile for finding imagery of a user's choice.
As Internet usage in the workplace continues to increase, the research has strong benefits for government and private industry. The anticipated results are an adaptable commercial system that will continually improve the filtering of objectionable imagery from the database."
Cascaded Injection Locked Diode Laser Transmitter For Lidar Measurements,NAS5-03071,NASA,NASA,STTR,2003,1,99189.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Phillip Battle,VP Technology,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Kevin Repasky,,,repasky@physics.montana.edu,"A lidar laser transmitter useful for profiling of clouds, aerosols, and differential absorption measurements of atmospheric trace constituents such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and ozone is proposed. The proposed laser transmitter is based on a master tunable external cavity diode laser (ECDL) used to injection lock a series of free running laser diodes (FRLD's). The FRDL's amplify the injected optical signal from the master ECDL so that the output of the laser transmitter maintains the tunability and narrow linewidth of the master ECDL. The amplified output signal of the laser transmitter is easily pulsed by modulating the drive current to the FRDL's. The innovative laser transmitter maintains the tunability and narrow linewidth of the master ECDL important for differential absorption lidar (DIAL) measurements while providing a pulsed amplified output. Cascading four injection locked FRDL's to a master ECDL can produce a peak power of 1W. An order of magnitude improvement in the signal to noise performance of a lidar system can be obtained using the cascaded injection locked laser transmitter compared to the state of the art pulsed flared amplifiers."
High-Efficiency Electro-Optic Modulators in Potassium Titanyl Phosphate Using Advanced Mode-Shaping Structures,F3361503M5428,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,1,69943.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Comptroller,4065220388,kehoe@advr-inc.com,Ken MacDonald,Laser Physicist,4065220388,macdonald@advr-inc.com,"This SBIR effort will develop advanced mode-matching structures for highly efficient electro-optic amplitude modulators in potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP). The intended application for these modulators is in intra-satellite fiber-optic data buses andother satellite communication and data-handling systems. The overall goal of this effort is the fabrication of electro-optic modulators featuring low insertion loss (20dB), low half-wave voltage at high bandwidth ("
"SBIR Phase I: Large Aperture, Periodically Poled, Hydrothermal Potassium Titanyl Phosphate for Highly Efficient Frequency Conversion of High-Power Solid-State and Fiber Lasers.",0319265,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,99543.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Tony Roberts,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to investigate the feasibility of fabricating large-aperture, periodic ferroelectric domain gratings for quasi-phase matched laser frequency conversion. The key innovation in this effort is the use of low temperature hydrothermally grown potassium titanyl phosphate (LTH-KTP) as the nonlinear optical substrate material. Using LTH-KTP will enable a simplified poling process, resulting in increased fabrication yields, lower component costs as well as allow the fabrication of high-quality, large aperture (>2mm) periodically poled wafers. The ability to periodically pole thick wafers of hydrothermally grown KTP, combined with its high resistance to optical damage (>500MW/cm2) will enable highly efficient, wavelength conversion of high-power laser sources for use in Lidar-based remote sensing applications including the increasingly important Homeland Security area of standoff detection of chemical and biological agents. The anticipated results of the Phase I effort include a demonstration of periodic poling in LTH-KTP using the micro-electrode technology and a preliminary assessment of the effect different poling configurations have on the quality of the domain grating. In the Phase II effort, the poling technology will be refined and grating structures suitable commercial applications will be fabricated.
The ability to periodically pole thick wafers of hydrothermally grown KTP, combined with its high resistance to optical damage will enable highly efficient, nonlinear optical frequency conversion of high-power ytterbium fiber and diode pumped solid state Nd: YAG lasers sources. Laser sources with increased pulse energies, wavelength flexibility, and excellent beam quality, will find use in both civilian and military applications. Specific applications include laser-based material processing (cutting, welding and marking), remote sensing for standoff detection of chemical and biological agents, environmental monitoring, forest management as well as Lidar-based missile identification, tracking, and targeting."
SBIR Phase I: Miniature NOx Sensor for Small Airborne Platforms,0318916,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,99721.00,"Anasphere, Inc.",106 Pronghorn Trail,,Bozeman,MT,-,No,No,No,,,,,John Bognar,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is intended to develop a new type of NOx sensor for use on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and other small aerial platforms. Many of these vehicles are quite small, and therefore have very limited space and weight allowances for instrument payloads - in fact, most traditional instruments used for real-time measurement of trace gas species of interest are simply too large and consume too much power to be used on UAVs. This project is to develop a new instrument for the measurement of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) based on a novel technique that lends itself to miniaturization. The instrument will be very small and light to allow it to be used in very small UAVs as well as on sounding balloons. Phase I research will demonstrate operation of a proof-of-concept instrument.
A variety of medical applications are foreseen, particularly in relation to asthma diagnosis and treatment. The instrument will also find extensive use in satellite calibration and validation. Ultimately, the NOx instrument will lead to two public benefits: improved air quality (and resulting health benefits), and improved treatment methods and diagnostic measures for asthma. An important direct medical application will be in the diagnosis and treatment of people suffering from asthma."
Performance of Innovative Native Seed Harvester,2003-33610-13046,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,75000.00,"Arbuckle Ranch, Inc.","100 Poly Drive, Suite 155",,Billings,MT,59101,No,No,No,Lee Arbuckle,President,4066557983,arbuckle@imt.net,Lee Arbuckle,,4066557983,arbuckle@bresnan.net,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Annually wildfires, construction, mining, and noxious weed infestations damage millions of acres of vegetation. Public policy encourages land managers to restore damaged land by reseeding native plant species. The core US market exceeds 15,000 seed producers using inefficient methods to harvest difficult to harvest seed of native plants. Demand for large amounts of seed is driven by restoration requirements of the BLM, Forest Service, and CRP. The seed of desirable species can be expensive and scarce as a result of harvest characteristics including indeterminacy and being prone to shatter. Arbuckle Ranch has designed a patent pending harvest technology specifically for difficult-to-harvest native seeds. The Arbuckle design incorporates the effective utility of a brush and comb to gently sweep the seed from the plant head, permitting multiple harvest passes without damage to the plant. The increased harvest efficiency promises to exceed all presently available methods. Arbuckle Ranch's market study indicates keen interest among seed producers in efficient, low-cost, low maintenance harvest equipment adaptable to multiple species. Arbuckle technology will permit seed producers to increase seed recovery from existing plots and augment their line of native plant species. Arbuckle Ranch will first market the harvester to seed producers nationally and then expand to serve existing global niche markets."
"Ground-Based, Line-Source Ignition Material for Prescribed Fires",2003-33610-13068,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,71500.00,Arctos Research,P.O. Box 728,,Plains,MT,59859,No,No,No,Jeff Reistroffer,Owner,4068265171,arctos@blackfoot.net,Jeff P. Reistroffer,,4068265171,arctos@blackfoot.net,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: A ""Forest Health Crisis"" exists in many areas of the United States, characterized by the build-up of forest vegetation as a result of over a century of effective fire suppression. This unnatural accumulation of fuels poses a significant risk to long-term forest health and to the safety of nearby communities in the event of a fire. Prescribed burning, the lighting and controlling of low-intensity fires, is often employed to reduce heavy fuel loads. It is difficult, however, to accomplish needed burning because the ""window of opportunity"" for burning each year is restricted by budget limitations, weather conditions, and air quality concerns. Use of the proposed incendiary tape will enable land mangers to accomplish more prescribed burning for forest fuel reduction than is now realized. This will be made possible as a result of reduced costs, more efficient utilization of manpower resources, and improved ability to control and manipulate fire behavior. Employing the incendiary tape to initiate line-source ignition of burn strips during the ignition phase of prescribed fire will provide greater opportunities to burn under conditions that would otherwise preclude it."
EcoSod: An Alternative Native Sod Solution for Highway Construction Projects,DTRS57-04-C-10004,DOT,DOT,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,Bitterroot Restoration Inc.,445 Quest Lane,,Corvallis,MT,59828,No,No,No,,,,,Tim Meikle,Director of Research and Development,4069614991,,"The Surface Transporation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act (STURAA) requires the use of native grasses and wildflowers within highway corridors. A major problem for the revegetation industry has been the ability to predictably establish native vegetation from seed. The production of native sods would allow for the most sensitive period of establishment-germination and initial seedling growth-to be bypassed in order to meet FHWA requirements for erosion control and weed suppression. Traditional sod production techniques, however, are geographically limited, environmentally problematic, and may act as a vector for the introduction of weed species. Bitterroot Resotration, Inc. proposes to develop ┐EcoSod┐, a lightweight, highly transportable native sod designed for short duration growing cycles. EcoSod will be constructed from a combination of weed-free geotextiles and soil substitutes, which increase the transportability of materials and field survival of installed sods. Phase I research will result in: 1) identification of source materials for EcoSod production; 2) development of propagation protocols; and 3) development of conceptual plans for demonstration plots in the western United States. Phase II will result in the establishment of three large-scale demonstration plots constructed in cooperation with western transportation departments."
Rapid Serological Diagnosis of Scrub Typhus Infections,DAMD17-03-C-002,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,1,69500.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,Richard F. Hammen,President,4067285897,chelatec@aol.com,Richard F. Hammen,President,4067285897,chelatec@aol.com,"Infectious disease is a serious threat to military personnel in operations in third world countries. The ability to rapidly diagnose disease is critical to initiate treatment and to reduce troop mortality. This research addresses the DoD need to adaptstate-of-the-art technology to develop a rapid, field-usable assay capable of diagnosing scrub typhus infection. ChelaTech has developed new composite materials for protein chromatography, that decrease the time necessary to perform immunoassays by anorder of magnitude, while increasing selectivity and sensitivity. The assay device is a transparent plastic tube with a thin layer of nonporous silica beads packed into it. The interstitial spaces between the beads are crossed with a thin hydrophilicpolymer matrix, that is covalently grafted to the support and immobilizes a typhus antigen. This Phase I Research will use this technology to develop an immunoassay for typhus antigen-binding IgG and IgM. Briefly, a patients' serum is complexed withProtein A-colloidal gold, and passed into the interstitial antigen column. The immunoglobulins against typhus antigen are bound in the tube and visualized. Non-binding proteins and colloidal gold are rinsed out. The unprecedented adsorption kinetics ofthe interstitial column permit the immunoassay to be completed within a few seconds. The commercial applications of this Research will be the development of ultra-fast immunoassays for clinical diagnosis and laboratory measurements. The interstitialchromatography composites developed by ChelaTech enable separation and accurate analysis of proteins within a few seconds. This technology will be used in this research to develop convenient immunoassays for infectious diseases, that can be performed in aminute. This order of magnitude increase in assay speed will have a substantial impact on the clinical diagnostics industry."
Maintaining and Using the Forest Biometrics Research Database,2003-33610-13940,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,Forest Biometrics,53 Trestle Ck. Dr.,,St. Regis,MT,59866,No,No,No,James D. Arney,Owner,4066490040,jdarney@forestbiometrics.com,James D. Arney,,4066490040,jdarney@forestbiometrics.com,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Forestry has historically relied on publically funded Experiment Stations and University programs to supply new technology. Funding has moved away from biometrics research and technical support. This situation changes the relationship among USDA Experiment Stations, University cooperatives, outside professional consultants and industrial forestry organizations. This project establishes the prototype organizational structure for an industry-sponsored research and technical services organization in forest biometrics. A large database of growth and yield information has been accumulated for availability through this new forest biometrics R & D organization. The forest industry is showing strong support for this new approach."
Maintaining and Using the Forest Biometrics Research Database,2003-33610-13940,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,2,198455.00,Forest Biometrics,53 Trestle Ck. Dr.,,St. Regis,MT,59866,No,No,No,James D. Arney,Owner,4066490040,jdarney@forestbiometrics.com,James D. Arney,,4066490040,jdarney@forestbiometrics.com,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Forestry has historically relied on publically funded Experiment Stations and University programs to supply new technology. Funding has moved away from biometrics research and technical support. This situation changes the relationship among USDA Experiment Stations, University cooperatives, outside professional consultants and industrial forestry organizations. This project establishes the prototype organizational structure for an industry-sponsored research and technical services organization in forest biometrics. A large database of growth and yield information has been accumulated for availability through this new forest biometrics R & D organization. The forest industry is showing strong support for this new approach."
Data Driven Prognostics,F33615-03-M-4122,DOD,MDA,STTR,2003,1,69991.00,"Golden Helix, Inc.",203 Enterprise Blvd Ste 1,,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Daniel Kehoe,COO,4065858137,kehoe@goldenhelix.com,Christophe Lambert,President & CEO,4069220011,lambert@goldenhelix.com,"We propose to develop a prototype suite of recursive partitioning (RP) methodologies to provide advanced warning of failure, malfunction and/or performance degradation for Airborne Laser Program subsystems in service. Through better monitoring and analysisof the status of its systems, prediction of equipment life remaining can be made and corrective action taken to enhance the availability of the Airborne Laser System and increase its cost-effectiveness. In general, the cost of failure of military equipmentcan be enormous in terms of resources, compromised mission success, and potential loss of life. Providing early warning before equipment failures transpire has a commensurately huge economic benefit. Our proprietary RP algorithms are already commercializedin the pharmaceutical industry in software used to predict patient outcomes in clinical trials. Modifying our methods to a hazard-based RP framework will enable us to meet MDA prognostic needs. The risk associated with this work is nominal but it ispossible that the premise we are working from will prove inadequate and require further investigation. With the funds from this grant we propose to further develop our patented recursive partitioning algorithms to perform hazard RP in a novel applicationto provide accurate predictions of system function/malfunction. The cost of failure of military equipment can be enormous, both in terms of resources and possible loss of life. Providing early warning before failures happen can reduce these costs. TheMDA anticipates the use of such successful technology with the Airborne Laser Program. Beyond applications to equipment failure, the technologies have applicability to human subjects in predicting lifetimes of people under various conditions."
Software Relating Genes to Disease and Clinical Outcomes,2R44GM062081-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,2,749999.00,"Golden Helix, Inc.",203 Enterprise Blvd Ste 1,,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Christophe Lambert,,4065858137,LAMBERT@GOLDENHELIX.COM,Christophe G. Lambert,,,LAMBERT@GOLDENHELIX.COM,"Not Available
DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The development of a software system is proposed that will combine statistical theory, computer science algorithms, and genetics expertise to take advantage of the great influx of data generated by the study of the human genome, clinical trials data and the creation of inexpensive genotyping techniques. This software will elucidate the complex relationship between drug efficacy and side effects, multiple interacting genes and environmental factors.
Our Phase I results show it is feasible to link phenotype to genotype for a list of ""candidate"" genes. A novel haplotype trend test has been developed to aid in finding associations across large SNP maps. Commercialization of this technique is essential for companies that intend to use large public or private SNP maps to locate genes that are associated with disease and drug safety and efficacy. Our statistical methods are expected to be successful even if the disease mechanism can differ from one person to another.
By analyzing and interpreting clinical trial data, the software will match drugs to target populations according to their specific genotype. This will enable pharmaceutical companies to create novel drugs that render maximum effectiveness and have minimum side effects, i.e. the right drug for the right person."
Software Relating Genes to Disease and Clinical Outcomes,2R44GM062081-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,"Golden Helix, Inc.",203 Enterprise Blvd Ste 1,,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Christophe Lambert,,4065858137,LAMBERT@GOLDENHELIX.COM,Christophe G. Lambert,,,LAMBERT@GOLDENHELIX.COM,"Not Available
DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The development of a software system is proposed that will combine statistical theory, computer science algorithms, and genetics expertise to take advantage of the great influx of data generated by the study of the human genome, clinical trials data and the creation of inexpensive genotyping techniques. This software will elucidate the complex relationship between drug efficacy and side effects, multiple interacting genes and environmental factors.
Our Phase I results show it is feasible to link phenotype to genotype for a list of ""candidate"" genes. A novel haplotype trend test has been developed to aid in finding associations across large SNP maps. Commercialization of this technique is essential for companies that intend to use large public or private SNP maps to locate genes that are associated with disease and drug safety and efficacy. Our statistical methods are expected to be successful even if the disease mechanism can differ from one person to another.
By analyzing and interpreting clinical trial data, the software will match drugs to target populations according to their specific genotype. This will enable pharmaceutical companies to create novel drugs that render maximum effectiveness and have minimum side effects, i.e. the right drug for the right person."
Developing a Reconfigurable On-Line Modeling Platform,1R41MH068892-01,HHS,HHS,STTR,2003,1,299600.00,Hylitech,BOX 10385,BOX 10385,Bozeman,MT,59719,No,No,No,,,4065821634,,Ross Snider,,,rosss@ece.montana.edu,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This proposal is being sent in response to NIMH PA-00-118. The objective of this proposal is to begin the commercialization process of a high performance reconfigurable signal-processing platform that will perform real-time on-line analysis of large-scale multi-channel data streams for data-driven neural simulations and modeling. The platform will be used to aid the discovery process where the cooperative neural encoding schemes through which sensory information is represented and transmitted within a nervous system will be uncovered. The system will enable real-time decoding of the neural information streams, and will enable experimental perturbation of the encoded information while the neural signals are in transit between peripheral and central processing stages. This will provide an unprecedented degree of interactive control in the analysis of neural function, and could lead to major insights into the biological basis of neural computation. The aim of this Phase I proposal is to construct a computation node using high performance field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) to be used in a data-driven modeling platform and to develop the associated software necessary to implementing neural models (mapping algorithms to hardware) efficiently in high end FPGA devices to enable real-time modeling & simulations. This will involve developing prototype boards comprised of Xilinx's Virtex-II Pro FPGAs with adequate communication bandwidth between nodes to ensure real-time performance. Several implementation techniques will be explored to discover the most efficient method of implementing neural modeling algorithms in hardware. These methods include: 1.) Using Mathwork's Matlab/Simulink and Xilinx's System Generator to map Simulink block diagrams to hardware. 2.) Using Xilinx's FORGE compiler to translate JAVA code to hardware. 3.) Using Celoxica's C Compiler to translate C code to hardware. 4.) Developing and embedding custom neural microprocessors in FPGAs."
Truth Quest: Enabling Operational/Exercise Data,F33615-03-C-1432,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2003,2,615130.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Ron Cooper,President,4065569880,roncooper@hyperspectives.net,Robert Crabtree,Director of Science,4065569880,crabtree@yellowstoneresearch.org,"The Phase II project will address enhancing ATR by developing techniques that use single and fused remotely sensed data sets to precisely characterize terrain environments, areas of potential trafficability, and areas of EOC clutter that can be ignored bythe ATR algorithms. These precision EOC identification and clutter-removal processes can be utilized as (1) a pre-ATR (terrain/ target potential or possible area) assessment and/or (2) a post-ATR refinement (change detection) process. The toolbox willconsist of multiple processing and analysis pathways suited to a variety a data sets and conditions. Data analysis will rely upon the use of spectral and spatial analysis. The analysis includes single image classification, fused classification, andsingle data type and fused data spectral/backscatter and spatial analysis techniques The process precisely discriminates and classifies fine scale landscape features. The use of spatially explicit techniques for classification and spatial patternidentification assists in (1) assess classification uncertainty; (2) quantification of expected rates for false negatives and false positives; (3) provides a probabilistic assessment of landscape features for both target and non-target classes. Theresult is a process to measure landscape features (characterize terrain) with a high level of precision and accuracy."
Computerized Rangeland Information System,2003-33610-13942,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,Land EKG. Inc.,6085 Browning Lane,,Bozeman,MT,59718,Yes,No,No,Sara Orchard,Operations Director,4065827480,sorchard@montana.net,Charles Orchard,,4065827480,corchard@montana.net,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Conditions on U.S. rangelands have long been a source of concern to natural resource experts and land stewards. Within the past two decades environmental and social concerns have resulted in statutes and regulations prompting for improved land, water, and ecological monitoring and management practices. These mandates imply a need for significant amounts of information for managing, planning, and inventorying rangelands. The National Academy of Science published the NRC 1994 Report, Rangeland Health, as an alternative to Range Condition methodology. This report concluded that current rangeland inventories do not provide the data needed to support national assessments of rangeland health. The NRC Committee stressed that standardization of monitoring systems must occur and recommended that rangeland health be assessed based on the status of multiple environmental indicators representing the four basic ecological processes. The report did not produce a method and expressed a need for improved evaluations regarding ecological health of the nation's rangelands. The science of assessing rangelands is changing as concepts evolve, yet existing systems appear to be disincentives for land managers to incorporate. Rangeland monitoring is a tool to optimize economic benefits, improve and sustain ecological functions, and comply with legal mandates. The CRIS3 will reduce confusion by clearly translating ecological concepts involving complex processes and components, into standardized terms that the public can comprehend, and resource specialists can use to determine rangeland health."
Computerized Rangeland Information System,2003-33610-13942,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,2,288505.00,Land EKG. Inc.,6085 Browning Lane,,Bozeman,MT,59718,Yes,No,No,Sara Orchard,Operations Director,4065827480,sorchard@montana.net,Charles Orchard,,4065827480,corchard@montana.net,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Conditions on U.S. rangelands have long been a source of concern to natural resource experts and land stewards. Within the past two decades environmental and social concerns have resulted in statutes and regulations prompting for improved land, water, and ecological monitoring and management practices. These mandates imply a need for significant amounts of information for managing, planning, and inventorying rangelands. The National Academy of Science published the NRC 1994 Report, Rangeland Health, as an alternative to Range Condition methodology. This report concluded that current rangeland inventories do not provide the data needed to support national assessments of rangeland health. The NRC Committee stressed that standardization of monitoring systems must occur and recommended that rangeland health be assessed based on the status of multiple environmental indicators representing the four basic ecological processes. The report did not produce a method and expressed a need for improved evaluations regarding ecological health of the nation's rangelands. The science of assessing rangelands is changing as concepts evolve, yet existing systems appear to be disincentives for land managers to incorporate. Rangeland monitoring is a tool to optimize economic benefits, improve and sustain ecological functions, and comply with legal mandates. The CRIS3 will reduce confusion by clearly translating ecological concepts involving complex processes and components, into standardized terms that the public can comprehend, and resource specialists can use to determine rangeland health."
SBIR Phase II: Microbial Enhancement of Soybeans for Salmonid Diets,0449453,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,99970.00,"MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, LLC",510 East Kent Ave.,,MISSOULA,MT,59801-6020,No,No,No,Clifford A. Bradley,Mr,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,Clifford A. Bradley,Mr,4065441176,cbradley@montana.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project aims to develop a process for enhancing the nutritional value of soybeans to replace fishmeal as the primary ingredient in farmed trout and salmon feed. Fishmeal creates environmental and economic constraints for the aquaculture industry. Plant-derived proteins are a good alternate feed source, but do not meet the nutritional requirements of many farmed fish species including trout and salmon. Prior Phase I work demonstrated that a combination of a selected fungal strain with innovations in solid substrate culture (SSC) would increase the protein content, eliminate the non-digestible carbohydrates and reduce anti-nutritional factors in soybeans. This Phase II project will test pilot-scale SSC technology to determine engineering design and economics for a commercial process to manufacture the bio-enhanced soy protein, and to demonstrate the feed value of this protein in trout feeding trials. The commercial application of this project will be in the aquaculture industry. The use of fishmeal creates economic, market and water pollution issues for fish farmers, and consumer concerns regarding environmental impacts (for example, there are reports of PCBs, dioxins, and other pesticides detected at higher levels in farmed salmon that have been fed fishmeal based diets). Replacing fishmeal with plant based proteins will promote health through increased fish consumption and will alleviate environmental and economic constraints facing the aquaculture industry."
Acoustically Intensified Reactor-Driven Mixed-base Hydrogen Peroxide System,F0461103M0016,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Joel Pierce,Chemical Engineer,4067232222,jpierce@montecresearch.com,"This Phase I project will develop and demonstrate an advanced process that utilizes a novel, high-intensity, low-frequency acoustic mixing technology in a system to rapidly produce a specialty fuel for use in chemical oxygen iodine lasers. The fuel is ahighly-reactive, mixed-base hydrogen peroxide (MHP). The MHP is used by a chemical oxygen iodine laser (COIL), which is the central element for the Airborne Laser (ABL) weapons system. The proposed technology is flexible enough to provide for mixing of thecomponents in any order. The compact size and compartmentalization of the system make it readily transportable by aircraft. The Phase I project will incorporate experimental work to generate mass and heat transfer data as it pertains to the reactingsystem, bound the stability of the process and develop control information. Results of the proposed work will be used to engineer the system. The Phase I deliverable is a preliminary process design package consisting of a process flow diagram, piping andinstrumentation diagrams, a major equipment list, a preliminary layout and an electrical single line diagram. Phase II will result in the design, fabrication and delivery and operation of a fully operational prototype system. The proposed technology hasdirect application to processes where exothermic reactions in viscous fluids must be processed under carefully controlled conditions such as those in the polymer industry and to other chemical industrial processes where process intensification is sought,for example, to increase throughput of existing facilities or to minimize the amount of hazardous materials that must be processed at a given time."
SBIR Phase I: The Production of Silicon Esters with an Advanced Enzymatic Reactor Technology,0232780,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Fangxiao Yang,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative, environmentally benign, enzymatic catalyst process and an advanced reactor design for the production of silicon esters from various feedstocks. All current processes for making silicon esters are either using expensive rare earth metal as catalysts or using halogen elements containing compounds as starting materials and high temperature. Some of them involve using or generating HCl gas and the formation of complex mixtures, which cannot be readily separated. The Phase I objective is to demonstrate feasibility of using immobilized enzyme as a catalyst for silicon ester synthesis coupled with the sonic-enhanced packed bed reactor technology. The investigation will focus on esterification reactions between alkyl silanols and saturated or unsaturated carboxylic acids to produce silicon esters with designed degree of saturation.
This enzymatic process will produce both saturated and unsaturated silicon esters that can be used for a broad range of applications, that include repellent coatings, contact lenses, electrical assemblies, perfumes, dyes, brake fluid, chromatography equipment, rubber products, products to reattach detached retinas and more. The unsaturated esters can also be used as monomers for silicon containing polymer production."
Acoustically-Enhanced Extractive Fermentation for Biomass Utilization,DE-FG02-03ER83765,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch,Todd McAdams,,4067232222,tmcadams@montecresearch.com,"72428S03-I Combining the unit operations of solvent extraction and fermentation would substantially lower the capital cost and operating expense of converting biomass to usable products. However, attempts to develop these extractive fermentations have suffered from oxygen and mass transfer limitations and long coalescing times. This project will apply novel acoustic agitation technology in the construction of an improved extractive fermentation bioreactor. This novel mixing technology will dramatically enhance gas-liquid and liquid-liquid mass transfer beyond standard impeller mixers, with even more improvement as the viscosity increases. Phase I will characterize the mass and oxygen transfer in the novel extractive fermentation bioreactor. The level of improvement will be quantified by conducting extractive fermentations with two processes of relevance to biomass conversion. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The technology should lead to sales of extractive fermentation bioreactors to companies developing large-scale biorefineries for the conversion of biomass to usable products (e.g., ethanol production). The technology also should enable the development of new extraction matrices that are currently limited by viscosity considerations."
Sonically-Enhanced Microbubble Flotation Column,DE-FG02-03ER83766,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Lawrence C. Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,"72427S03-I Industry discards approximately one-tenth of mined coal. Also, nearly one-third of the phosphates mined in Florida, one-fifth of the tungsten mined in the world, and one-half of the tin mined in Bolivia are discarded as unrecoverable fine material. Large amounts of energy are invested in grinding these minerals, much of which is lost as uneconomical mining byproducts that are eventually impounded, representing a misuse of valuable natural resources. This project will develop a novel froth flotation technology that should be well-suited for the efficient separation and recovery of fine particles less than 5 microns in size, and result in lower energy use. Phase I entails the design, fabrication and testing of an advanced, sonically-enhanced, column flotation technology. The technology will be evaluated using coal and copper minerals. Direct comparisons of its performance will be made against state-of-the-art froth flotation technology. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Froth flotation is the most widely used unit process in the minerals processing industry with over three billion tons of mined ores and coal being floated annually. Also, flotation is used extensively for the beneficiation of coal ┐ virtually all new coal preparation plants incorporate flotation into their basic flow sheet. Non-mining applications include wastewater treatment, removal of oil from oil-water mixtures, de-inking of newsprint paper, sewage treatment, water purification, and soil washing, as well as a few other niche processes related to chemicals, plastics recycling, and food processing."
Innovative Enzymatic Reactor for Production of Alternative Fuels,2003-33610-14000,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,2,296000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Fangxiao Yang,Senior Chemical Engineer,4067232222,fxyang@montecresearch.com,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Current technology of biodiesel production is facing two major hurdles. It can't process the grease containing high free fatty acid (FFA) and the production cost is still not competitive compared to the petroleum diesel. The proposed technology addresses these problems and intends to produce biodiesel at $0.20 per gallon for production costs and less that $1.00 total cost. We are developing a biodiesel production process which focuses on the use of a low-cost feedstock (animal fat and recycled cooking oil), which combined with a low-cost production technology, results in product that is competitive in price with petroleum diesel. Nine billion pounds of animal byproducts and recycled vegetable oil are collected in the U.S., which can be potentially converted to 1.2 billion gallons of B100, which can replace 1.1 billion gallons, or 26 million barrels, of petroleum diesel fuel. If half of these feedstocks are converted to biodiesel, that provides a U.S. market for sixty 10-million gallon per year plants."
Sonically-Intensified Mixing for Enhanced Plant Cell Culture Productivity,2003-33610-13055,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,75000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Todd McAdams,Senior Chemical Engineer,4067232222,tmcadams@montecresearch.com,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: The market for plant-derived drugs and intermediates is approximately $10 billion in the United States. In addition to market considerations, productive plant cell culture processes offer the potential to accelerate clinical development of plant-derived pharmaceuticals, protect the originating plant species from over-exploitation, and reduce supply fluctuations due to unpredictable climate variables. Due to economic limitations, very few plant cell culture processes have been commercially developed. Low volumetric productivity of plant cell cultures is the primary reason for the lack of economic viability. Conventionally, mechanically-stirred or airlift systems are the two bioreactor choices for plant cell cultures. Mechanically-stirred systems usually provide adequate mass-transport, but often impart unacceptable levels of hydrodynamic shear stress that impairs plant cell growth and/or secondary metabolite production. Airlift systems provide greatly reduced shear stress, but often not enough mass transfer to maintain secondary metabolite production at high densities. In both types of systems, the elevated viscosities of high cell densities significantly impair mass transport. This Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative sonically-intensified bioreactor for the production of secondary metabolites from plant cell culture. The use of this technology may greatly increase the volumetric productivity of high-density plant cell cultures, enabling more processes to reach the level of economic feasibility."
Innovative Enzymatic Reactor for Production of Alternative Fuels,2003-33610-14000,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@resodyn.com,Fangxiao Yang,Senior Chemical Engineer,4067232222,fxyang@montecresearch.com,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Current technology of biodiesel production is facing two major hurdles. It can't process the grease containing high free fatty acid (FFA) and the production cost is still not competitive compared to the petroleum diesel. The proposed technology addresses these problems and intends to produce biodiesel at $0.20 per gallon for production costs and less that $1.00 total cost. We are developing a biodiesel production process which focuses on the use of a low-cost feedstock (animal fat and recycled cooking oil), which combined with a low-cost production technology, results in product that is competitive in price with petroleum diesel. Nine billion pounds of animal byproducts and recycled vegetable oil are collected in the U.S., which can be potentially converted to 1.2 billion gallons of B100, which can replace 1.1 billion gallons, or 26 million barrels, of petroleum diesel fuel. If half of these feedstocks are converted to biodiesel, that provides a U.S. market for sixty 10-million gallon per year plants."
SBIR Phase II: The ResonantSonic Enhanced Mixer and Coalescer (RSEMC) as an Advanced Solvent Extraction Technology,0321499,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Joel Pierce,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II (SBIR) project will develop and demonstrate a novel prototype solvent extraction (SX) device, which, by virtue of its highly uniform shear and mixing intensity, has the potential to supplant existing SX units in terms of extraction and phase separation rates. The technical approach of the Phase II project is as follows: 1.) Develop performance and scale-up principles for the SX device, optimize the hardware configuration and process conditions; 2.) Apply the results to the design of a reliable prototype SX system that demonstrates improved mass transfer and phase separation, and decreased entrainment at power consumption levels equivalent to existing equipment. The Phase I copper extraction work showed a 3-5 fold improvement in extraction and phase separation rates over existing mixer-settlers that are used in the minerals industry for the recovery of copper.
The commercial benefits of the ResonantSonic solvent extraction device to the minerals industry are reduced equipment size and footprint, reduced solvent loss, and improved electrowinning efficiency. Reducing the solvent loss to the environment has great societal benefit as losses can exceed 100,000 gallons per year per mine site. Other potential applications are metals separation, and the recovery of vitamins, antibiotics, and other pharmaceuticals"
SBIR Phase II: The ResonantSonic Enhanced Mixer and Coalescer (RSEMC) as an Advanced Solvent Extraction Technology,0321499,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,2,500000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Joel Pierce,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II (SBIR) project will develop and demonstrate a novel prototype solvent extraction (SX) device, which, by virtue of its highly uniform shear and mixing intensity, has the potential to supplant existing SX units in terms of extraction and phase separation rates. The technical approach of the Phase II project is as follows: 1.) Develop performance and scale-up principles for the SX device, optimize the hardware configuration and process conditions; 2.) Apply the results to the design of a reliable prototype SX system that demonstrates improved mass transfer and phase separation, and decreased entrainment at power consumption levels equivalent to existing equipment. The Phase I copper extraction work showed a 3-5 fold improvement in extraction and phase separation rates over existing mixer-settlers that are used in the minerals industry for the recovery of copper.
The commercial benefits of the ResonantSonic solvent extraction device to the minerals industry are reduced equipment size and footprint, reduced solvent loss, and improved electrowinning efficiency. Reducing the solvent loss to the environment has great societal benefit as losses can exceed 100,000 gallons per year per mine site. Other potential applications are metals separation, and the recovery of vitamins, antibiotics, and other pharmaceuticals"
Biofilm Remediation for Restoration of Contaminated Army Sites.,DAAD1903C0103,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2003,1,99966.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis J. Moore,"Manager, Administration",4064947100,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Robin Gerlach,Research Assistant,4069941840,robin_g@erc.montana.edu,"Many Department of Defense (DoD) sites are contaminated with contaminants of concern (CoCs) that are hazardous to humans and the environment requiring novel remediation strategies. MSE Technology Applications, Inc. and the Center for Biofilm Engineering(Montana State University) propose this Phase I STTR to develop novel, biofilm-based, remediation technologies for in situ and ex situ bioremediation of soil and groundwater contaminants. Multispecies biofilms may represent a superior solution overexisting in situ remediation technologies due to their stability and diverse metabolic activities. Biofilms could improve the rate and extent of contaminant transformation over pure and suspended cultures, as well as enhance organism survival. Substrategradients develop naturally within biofilms and provide diverse environmental conditions required for mineralization of recalcitrant compounds. Phase I of this STTR will focus on the fundamental issues of establishing mixed-species biofilms to degraderecalcitrant contaminants. Biofilm development and contaminant degradation will be monitored, and biofilm architecture and community structure will be assessed. While this Phase I research focuses on two model contaminants, TNT and RDX, Phase II researchwill expand to other CoCs. A cost-effective biofilm-based bioremediation technology will have broad applicability for public and private-sector clients challenged with remediation of a wide range of contaminants. The successful development ofbiofilm-based bioremediation technologies for in situ and ex situ soil and groundwater contaminants will provide the Army, and other public and private sector clients, with an innovative, less expensive treatment tool. Biofilm processes will allow forgreater control of the reaction and complete mineralization of recalcitrant compounds, which most existing bioremediation technologies cannot achieve. Initially the market for this technology will be the DoD, but other public and private sector clientswith a broad range of bioremediation needs will also be served. The most obvious clients are military installations with munition/explosives, chlorinated aliphatic and chlorinated aromatic wastes. Other customers include those in the public and privatesector with subsurface pollutants that are difficult to treat and must be remediated in situ."
SBIR Phase I: Enhanced Dense Nonaqueous Phase Liquid (DNAPL) Degradation by Thermophilic Bioaugmentation of Electrical Resistance Heating,0319742,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,99969.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,Leah Matheson,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of isolating a consortia of thermophilic microorganisms that can degrade chlorinated hydrocarbons to benign products in situ with the use of a novel technology involving electrical resistance heating (ERH).
The commercial application of this project falls more broadly in the area of environmental biotechnology, and more specifically in the area of hazardous waste cleanup through high temperature bioremediation."
"STTR Phase II: A Rapid-deployment, Three-dimensional (3-D), Seismic Reflection System",0239071,NSF,NSF,STTR,2003,1,0.00,"PFM Manufacturing, Inc.",108 North Spruce Street,,Townsend,MT,59644,No,No,No,,,,,Patrick Miller,,,,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II project aims to build a prototype of a rapid-deployment, three-dimensional (3-D), seismic reflection system for near-surface exploration. Although the 3-D seismic reflection method enjoys tremendous commercial success in marine applications, 3-D seismic systems for land-based geophysical exploration have been limited because cost-effective and environmentally friendly deployment systems have not been developed. Such a system would be useful to build models of ground water flow, track pollutants, identify mineral-laden zones, and aid the sitting of large construction projects.
The next generation seismic system based on the land streamers concept using gimbal-mounted vertical geophones will be assembled. An industrial, low-impact All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) is a critical part of the system both to pull the land streamers and minimize environmental impact. The primary advantage of such a system is that fewer field personnel would be needed compared to conventional surveys and data can be collected more efficiently. The customer base for this seismic reflection system includes civil and environmental engineers and geophysical contractors."
SBIR Phase I: Gallium and Germanium Recovery from Acidic and Alkaline Ore Leaches with Selective Silica-Polyamine Composites,0232259,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,"Purity Systems, Inc.",3116 Old Pond Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Fischer,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop advanced materials for the separation and concentration of germanium and gallium from both acidic and basic ore leaches. The primary objective of the project will be to develop synthetic routes for grafting polyamines to silica particles resulting in composite material that provide an excellent platform for immobilizing metal selective ligands on a matrix is resistant to acids and bases and elevated temperatures. This should permit germanium and gallium loadings and usable materials lifetimes that are superior to current technologies.
The development of more efficient means of extracting these metals will result in the exploitation of germanium and gallium deposits in the United States that cannot be currently developed due to the limited availability of economically viable and environmentally benign ore processing protocols"
"A Down-Hole Probe for Real-Time Ore Grade Assessment in ""Look Ahead"" Mining",DE-FG02-03ER83767,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2003,1,99909.00,"RESONON, INC","619 N CHURCH AVE, STE 3",,BOZEMAN,MT,59715,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,,4065863356,kehoe@resonon.com,Rand Swanson,,4065863356,swanson@resonon.com,"73147B03-I The removal, sorting, disposal, and treatment of waste rock in mining operations are expensive processes, wasteful of energy, hazardous, and environmentally damaging. The best possible remedy is to avoid creating the waste rock in the first place. This can be accomplished with existing mining techniques if ┬┐look-ahead┬┐ ore grading were used to evaluate unmined rock in real time. This project will develop a down-hole sensor that will fuse recently developed optical techniques with induced polarization and resistivity sensors, to provide look-ahead ore grade assessment. The probe will allow miners to assess the local ore grade before blasting, thereby enabling selective mining. In Phase I, feasibility demonstrations of the optical, electrical, mechanical, and power systems of the down-hole probe will be made. Based on the results of this research, plans will be made for a Phase II prototype. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The down-hole probe, specifically targeted for ┬┐look-ahead┬┐ mining applications, should decrease the amount of waste rock generated, improve mine safety, and decrease energy usage. The technology should become increasingly valuable as near-surface ore bodies are depleted and smaller, deeper ore bodies are targeted."
Huntite Crystals for UV Nonlinear Optics and Self_Doubled Lasers,F3361503C5411,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,2,739075.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Gregory A. Peterson,Research Scientist,4065853772,gregsm@montana.com,"Nonlinear Optical (NLO) crystals play a critical role in current solid-state laser systems operating at fixed UV or visible wavelengths, and as tunable frequency converters known as Optical Parametric Oscillators (OPOs). Currently, NLO materials limit theavailable wavelengths, as well as the longevity and efficiency of these laser systems due to low damage thresholds, poor optical quality, and small nonlinearities. As a result, new NLO crystals that can improve the performance of solid-state laser systemsand provide new combinations of optical and mechanical properties are needed. Specifically, there is a need for new NLO crystals for use in high efficiency all solid-state lasers operating in the UV. Borate-huntite compositions, such as YAl3(BO3)4 (YAB),have been shown to have modest birefringence, large nonlinearities, and large damage thresholds making them ideal for NLO and OPO applications. However, most borate-huntite compositions melt incongruently and must be grown from high temperature solutions.Crystals of a borate-huntite composition will be produced under this Phase II project that have been demonstrated to melt congruently. Crystals that can be grown from a congruent melt are generally more robust, possess better optical properties and can begrown easily relative to the solution grown crystals."
SBIR Phase II: Kits for the Detection of Bioterror Pathogens,0450469,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,99957.00,SensoPath,2100 Fairway Drive,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0001,Yes,No,No,Brenda D. Spangler,Dr,4065858192,brenda.spangler@sensopath.com,Brenda D. Spangler,Dr,4065858192,brenda.spangler@senopath.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project proposes to develop field deployable kits for the detection of bio-terror pathogens. These kits would consist of fluorescent-labeled antibodies directed against protein toxins expressed by bio-terror pathogens, relying for detection on strong antibody-antigen interactions and fast chromatographic discrimination using simple chromatography strips supplied with inexpensive pre-measured reagents. In Phase I project, new water soluble blue-emitting reporter fluorophores were synthesized that were extremely photo-stable and could be easily visualized under any type of light conditions. These fluorophores were conjugated to an antibody against Bacillus anthracis as the initial proof-of-concept, and methodology was developed to attach these reporter fluorophores to monoclonal, polyclonal or recombinant antibodies. The objectives of Phase II project are to optimize reagents and chromatography, to synthesize new fluorophores for multiplexed pathogen detection, to design and assemble prototype kits, and to test and validate the kits. The commercial application of this project will be in the area of homeland security. The proposed kits are expected to be inexpensive, versatile, and easy to use by relatively untrained first responders (such as police, firefighters, paramedics, hazmat personnel, other emergency response teams)."
"Keyhole Squeeze-Off Tool to Enable Repair of Large (4"" and 6"") Polyethylene Gas Pipes",DE-FG02-03ER83806,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2003,2,750000.00,Timberwolf Corporation,P.O.Box 1328,,Whitefish,MT,59937-0132,No,No,No,Jeanine M. Green,,4067554259,jmg@timberlinetool.com,Kenneth H. Green,,4067554258,khg@timberlinetool.com,"70281S02-II There is a critical need for safe, reliable and cost effective repair of aging and expanding natural gas transmission and distribution polyethylene (PE) pipelines in the United States. The industry is moving to ┬┐keyhole┬┐ access to repair these pipelines because of safety, reliability, and cost benefits. The critical first step in gas line maintenance and repair is to stop the flow of natural gas. This typically is achieved by ┬┐squeezing off┬┐ the gas flow with PE pipe squeeze-off tools. However, no tools are currently available for squeezing-off 4 and 6 inch PE pipes through keyhole access. This project will develop, demonstrate, and manufacture an innovative ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool that can safely squeeze-off these large diameter polyethylene pipes through keyhole access. In Phase I, a ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ test tool was designed, fabricated, and field tested for large (4┬┐ and 6┬┐) diameter polyethylene natural gas pipe. The squeeze-off tool exceeded performance expectations in the field tests, and was received enthusiastically by utility representatives. Phase II will optimize the design of an engineered prototype squeeze-off tool. Four units will be fabricated and rigorously tested in laboratory and field-test environments, and then used in natural gas utility operations. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The new squeeze-off tool should provide the ┬┐keyhole┬┐ technology needed for safe, reliable, and cost effective repair of polyethylene pipe, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the Nation┬┐s gas distribution network. With thousands of large pipe squeeze-off operations needed annually, there is a significant commercial potential for the ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool."
"Keyhole Squeeze-Off Tool to Enable Repair of Large (4"" and 6"") Polyethylene Gas Pipes",DE-FG02-03ER83806,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,Timberwolf Corporation,P.O.Box 1328,,Whitefish,MT,59937-0132,No,No,No,Jeanine M. Green,,4067554259,jmg@timberlinetool.com,Kenneth H. Green,,4067554258,khg@timberlinetool.com,"70281S02-II There is a critical need for safe, reliable and cost effective repair of aging and expanding natural gas transmission and distribution polyethylene (PE) pipelines in the United States. The industry is moving to ┬┐keyhole┬┐ access to repair these pipelines because of safety, reliability, and cost benefits. The critical first step in gas line maintenance and repair is to stop the flow of natural gas. This typically is achieved by ┬┐squeezing off┬┐ the gas flow with PE pipe squeeze-off tools. However, no tools are currently available for squeezing-off 4 and 6 inch PE pipes through keyhole access. This project will develop, demonstrate, and manufacture an innovative ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool that can safely squeeze-off these large diameter polyethylene pipes through keyhole access. In Phase I, a ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ test tool was designed, fabricated, and field tested for large (4┬┐ and 6┬┐) diameter polyethylene natural gas pipe. The squeeze-off tool exceeded performance expectations in the field tests, and was received enthusiastically by utility representatives. Phase II will optimize the design of an engineered prototype squeeze-off tool. Four units will be fabricated and rigorously tested in laboratory and field-test environments, and then used in natural gas utility operations. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The new squeeze-off tool should provide the ┬┐keyhole┬┐ technology needed for safe, reliable, and cost effective repair of polyethylene pipe, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the Nation┬┐s gas distribution network. With thousands of large pipe squeeze-off operations needed annually, there is a significant commercial potential for the ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool."
"Bioengineered Proteins for Chemical/Biological Defense, Protection, and Decontamination",DAAD1902C0103,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2003,1,0.00,Transwesttech,10720 Gee Norman Road,,Belgrade,MT,59714,No,No,No,Gordon Julian,Vice-President,4065825871,transgenics@aol.com,Kenneth DeBoer,President,4063884566,deboer5@peoplepc.com,"The objective is completion of the project, initiated in Phase I, to generate transgenic chickens capable of expressing and secreting specified proteins into the whites of eggs, allowing economical large scale production. In the Phase I effort, seventeenbirds were shown to have generated transgenic sperm as demanded by the criteria for success specified in the research protocols. This satisfies our Phase I objective. It is intended that the Phase I results will be extended in Phase II to generate avianscapable of producing large quantities of pharmaceutical proteins (vaccines, antibodies, antidotes, etc.) in their eggs to allow efficient and economical production for commercial purposes as well as Public Health and Defense Department needs. The Companyhas already received contacts from industrial concerns interested in utilizing this technology for gaining access to otherwise unobtainable markets. In one instance the first year market for their first product would approximate $160M. Avian transgenictechnology has the potential to provide vast quantities of protein products used in vaccines, biocides, antidotes and many as yet undiscovered applications owing to its enhanced and accessible scale of protein production coupled to its vastly lower costfor production. The modular character of the transgenic vector allows alternative protein expression systems to be introduced within the vector's genetic framework, to provide a versatile technique for altering production objectives to accommodatechanging customer requirements. People are increasingly concerned about the current world which witnesses rapid dissemination of new diseases by commercial transportation and the potential of bioterroism by sophisticated international criminals. Somemechanisms are required to provide large amounts of effective counteracting drugs. One immediate need for such agents is their use by our armed forces which must travel to remote regions of the world where exotic diseases flourish. Not only are largenumbers of troops in need of such protection, it is also in our country's interest to prevent rapidly spreading plagues from dispersing throughout the world. We believe that not only does transgenic poultry technology provide this production potential, italso has the ability to adapt rapidly to changing production requirements."
SBIR Phase I: Discovery Analyst: A Data Mining System for Image Databases,0232920,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,,,,,Stuart Blundell,,,,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project describes a powerful new approach to GIS data-mining for large image databases. The current inefficiencies in extracting information from these databases are primarily caused by the limited ability to extract baseline geographic information (such as road networks) from images. The proposed system addresses this need by combining feature extraction efficiencies with the ability to refine queries efficiently. The feature extraction system reduces the labor required for extracting information from imagery and the query refinement system incorporates user-driven and data-driven strategies to focus on interesting and relevant discoveries. The proposed system will also provide solutions for multi-media applications containing imagery, web-based applications, medical image repositories, and other applications.
Geo-spatial information technology is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of scientific research, environmental modeling, local government planning, and federal government security programs. The proposed system also has commercial potential for other application domains such as medical imaging."
Developing a Seamless Integration Between Machine Learning Techniques and Rule-Based Classification of Remotely Sensed Imagery,DACA42-03-C-001,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,1,120000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David W. Opitz,Chief Executive Officer,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,Chief Operating Officer,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"The Army has a critical need to accelerate and improve terrain analyses from remotely sensed imagery to support the increasingly mobile requirements of the Army Warfighter. Existing techniques for terrain analysis, topographic, and reproduction supportare slow, labor intensive processes that do not meet the needs of the Force XXI digital battlefield. Previous research has shown that incorporating ancillary data, such as GIS thematic data layers or DEM derived rasters, into rule-based classificationscan increase the accuracy and precision of land-cover and land-use classification. However, the process of rule generation from these data is a significant challenge without expert knowledge or sophisticated computer science programming skills.Artificial intelligence techniques, including machine learning and rule-based expert systems, are now emerging in COTS geoprocessing software for tasks such as feature extraction and image classification. Visual Learning Systems, Inc. (VLS) introduced theFeature AnalystT extension for ESRI's ArcGIS software in 2001. Widely recognized in the industry as the first viable machine learning application incorporating spatial context in the feature extraction process, the underlying Feature Analyst architecturewill be used to automatically generate and refine a rule base using a novel approach called theory refinement. The proposed Phase I research strongly supports the Army's SBIR program goals of developing a seamless integration between machine learningtechniques and rule-based classification of remotely sensed imagery. In addition to supporting the Army's terrain analysis needs the proposed system will also support scientific research, environmental modeling, local government planning, and federalgovernment security programs. The connectionist theory refinement system proposed here has strong commercial potential for the GIS software industry as a means of lowering the costs of geospatial database maintenance using remotely sensed imagery."
Developing a Seamless Integration Between Machine Learning Techniques and Rule-Based Classification of Remotely Sensed Imagery,W9132V-04-C-0002,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,2,730000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,Chief Executive Officer,4068291384,opitz@vls-inc.com,Stuart Blundell,Chief Operating Officer,4068291384,sblundell@vls-inc.com,"The proposed system will give an approach for increasing the speed, accuracy, and validation of feature extraction models while simultaneously creating an environment that allows both the flexibility for power users and the simplicity for the majority ofusers (novice users that can be trained and effective in a day) - and a mechanism that allows the two levels of users to seamlessly work together and communicate. In Phase I, we have demonstrated the value of converting black box learners into open(human-understandable) learners in the form of decision trees and the rule sets that are derived from them. While classification accuracy has always been of utmost importance, speed has become an increasingly important issue with the proliferation ofterabyte- and even petabyte-sized digital image databases. Theory refinement has the advantages of both rule-based expert systems and inductive learning, and takes advantage of uniquely human perception in extracting features from imagery. Mostimportantly, it makes feature extraction models more portable and reduces expert user time and effort in porting models to new and different problem domains. Geospatial information technology is the cornerstone that supports the United States defense andintelligence mission to maintain information superiority over enemy forces. The connectionist theory refinement system proposed here advances VLS' award winning Feature Analystr software by increasing the speed, accuracy, and portability of AFE models.The convergence between GIS software technology and the high-resolution commercial satellite imagery market provides substantial opportunities for the Feature Analyst technology in the following market spaces:1. Defense and Intelligence solutions to support the war on global terrorism. The events of September 11, 2001 have created a heightened sense of awareness on the value of timely and accurate GIS data. The DoD budget for 2004 and beyond will includesubstantial funds going towards improvements in intelligence gathering including advancements in automated feature extraction and target recognition.2. Homeland Security for creation and maintenance of GIS data layers. The newly created Office of Homeland Security has a budget of over $30 billion. Identification and mapping of high-value assets (pipelines, power plants, etc), monitoring of borders,and preparation of disaster and emergency services all require GIS mapping.3. Forestry to support timber management applications, wildfire modeling, and land-use analysis.4. Civil Government applications such as pervious-impervious surface mapping, creation and maintenance of GIS data layers for roads and structures, identification of urban"
Periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate:A new approach for a new material,F33615-02-M-5420,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2002,1,69917.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Mike Kehoe,Comptroller,4065220388,kehoe@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,Principal Investigator,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"""This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will investigate a promising new technique for fabricating periodic domain gratings in stoichiometric lithium tantalate(SLT). The key innovation in this SBIR effort is the use of externally mountedmicro-electrodes to electrically pole the material. This poling technique, made possible because of the low coercive field found in SLT, will significantly reduce the complexity of the poling setup and thus result in lower fabrication costs and higheroutput yields than has previously been possible. In addition, this technique should make it possible to periodically pole SLT wafers up to 5 mm thick. Periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate, because of its increased ultra-violet(uv)transparency and high resistance to optical and photorefractive damage, will enable highly efficient, quasi-phase matched, nonlinear optical frequency conversion of high power continuous wave and pulsed laser radiation. The anticipated results of the PhaseI effort include a demonstration of periodic poling using the micro-electrode technology and a preliminary assessment of the effect different sample thicknesses have on the quality of the grating period. In the Phase II effort, the poling technology willbe refined and grating structures suitable for MDA specifc applications will be fabricated. The ability to engineer customized domain gratings in thick wafers of SLT will greatly expand its functio"
Frequency-Agile Monolithic Micro-Laser with Ultra-Narrow Linewidth,F29601-02-C-0058,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2002,1,99491.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Michael Kehoe,Comptroller,4065220388,kehoe@advr-inc.com,Gregg Switzer,Laser Physicist,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"""A method for generating a high power, continuous wave (cw) monolithic micro-laser with rapidly tunable, narrow linewidth output is proposed. The concept employs a semiconductor laser coupled to an electro-optically controlled Bragg waveguide in PotassiumTitanyl Phosphate (KTP) providing single frequency output. Frequency tuning is achieved by applying a voltage across the waveguide, thereby changing its index of refraction. The targeted tuning range is 30 GHz in 1 ms by applying 18 volts across thewaveguide. The output of the laser will be amplified to 1 Watt using a commercially available Yb-doped fiber amplifier. The combined system will provide a high power, rapidly tunable, single frequency output in a robust, monolithic package ideal fortracking fast moving objects in the atmosphere.KTP is an ideal medium for this application because of its high electro-optic figure of merit (~36 pm/V), high threshold for optical damage (~1 GW/cm2), low susceptibility to photo-refractive damage, and the ability to form low loss (0.5 dB/cm) waveguidesusing standard ion exchange techniques. KTP is transparent from 350 nm to 4500 nm, so the device will work for a wide variety of wavelengths ranges. The proposed monolithic laser will provide rapid tuning over a broad frequency range at high power making it ideal for laser tracking and spectroscopy."""
SBIR/STTR Phase I:Low-Voltage Poling of Waveguides in Nonlinear Optical Materials,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2002,1,99761.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Philip Battle,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to develop a novel low-voltage periodic poling technique for creating highly efficient quasi-phase matched waveguides in nonlinear optical materials. The key innovation of the proposed technology is the use of co-planar micro-comb electrodes to periodically pole waveguides embedded in a nonlinear optical material such as potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP). Periodically poled waveguides will enable highly efficient, quasi-phase matched (QPM), nonlinear optical frequency conversion of continuous wave and low peak power quasi-continuous radiation. The proposed technique will allow multiple waveguides with different QPM gratings to be fabricated onto a single device, thereby building in wavelength flexibility as well as reducing cost. The anticipated benefits of low-voltage poling are waveguides with significantly improved conversion efficiency, low scattering loss, and increased manufacturing yields.
The commercial applications of this project are in the areas of bioanalytical instrumentation (such as medical diagnostics, flow cytometers and medical imagers) and telecommunications."
Alternative Growth Medium Product to Promote VAM Colonization,2002-33610-11873,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,79946.00,Bitterroot Restoration Inc.,445 Quest Lane,,Corvallis,MT,59828,No,No,No,Blaise Hartman,Chief Financial Officer,4069614991,,Tim Meikle,,4069614991,,"VAM inoculum is a common specification for large-scale plant production contracts throughout the United States. Currently, VAM inoculation is required for the production of native plant materials in revegetation efforts associated with fire rehabilitation, mine reclamation, conservation plantings, contaminated site cleanup, and other activities. These activities represent a continuous expenditure of public and private funds worth several million dollars annually. A major problem in the revegetation industry is the inability of container growers to produce plants colonized by VAM. Despite the commercialization of VAM inoculum by the biotechnical industry, actual colonization of plants using standard nursery practices has provided consistently low colonization rates. Bitterroot Restoration, Inc. proposes to develop a growth medium product that promotes VAM colonization under standard plant production conditions. Our project will evaluate the influence of alternative growth media components on VAM colonization rates. A series of greenhouse studies will be conducted which systematically contrast VAM colonization rates with recently developed and existing growth media, amendments, and fertilizer types."
Nanophotonic Modulator using Electromagnetically Induced Transparency,F49620-03-C-0002,DOD,USAF,STTR,2002,1,99999.00,"Chronochrome, Inc.",3677 Johnson Road,,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Alan E. Craig,President,4065865571,giarcea@yahoo.com,Tiejun Chang,Photonics Research Engineer,4065865571,gnahc70@yahoo.com,"""The proposed high bandwidth electro-optic modulator uses an optical waveguide microcavity to enhance the interaction of optical fields with a material that exhibits coherent quantum attributes. The nonlinear characteristic of the light - matter coupling inconcert with the resonance requirements of the microcavity provide a sensitive modulation mechanism. In the device the combination of nanophotonic and quantum interference effects can respond to low signal levels at high bandwidth. Electro-optic modulatorsface stringent emerging specifications to operate at higher bandwidth in response to lower drive signals as electronic processors and data communication link characteristics improve. Applications exist in chip-to-chip data transfer and in multiplexedcommunication network routing. A specific need has been identified to transfer RSFQ-level signals from cryogenic electronics to an optical carrier."""
Establishment of the Forest Biometrics Institute - Research Database,2002-33610-11810,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,69200.00,Forest Biometrics,53 Trestle Ck. Dr.,,St. Regis,MT,59866,No,No,No,James D. Arney,Owner,4066490040,jdarney@forestbiometrics.com,James D. Arney,,4066490040,jdarney@forestbiometrics.com,"The objectives of this project are to: 1. Establish one, standardized research database for long-term records from field studies of all existing growth and yield studies in the Northwestern States currently accumulated and maintained by Dr. James D. Arney. These databases contain 2,846,000 tree records in 20,440 plots representing hundreds of site preparation, planting, brush control, thinning, pruning and fertilization conditions and interactions. They span over fifty years of observation in five western States. 2. Make this research plot database available to other researchers and graduate students wishing to investigate stand dynamics, inter-species competition, growth-mortality relationships and refinements to long-term growth models. 3. Provide the incentive to return copies of all analyses back to this library so that each user generates a net gain to documented knowledge about growth & yield in the Northwest for the benefit of all. In this way even small, short-term analyses may contribute to the overall knowledge in forest silviculture and forest modeling."
"Airborne Detection of Disturbed Soil Using Electro-Optic (EO), Hyperspectral, Infrared (IR), and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Sensors",N68335-03-C-0035,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2002,1,69992.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Ron Cooper,President,4065569880,roncooper@hyperspectives.net,Andrew Marcus,Director Science,5413021687,marcus@oregon.uoregon.edu,"""Recent advances in remote sensing technologies through the availability of more sensitive instruments, and improvements in geo-location technologies and analysis software have resulted in significant strides in the successful application of high resolutionremote sensing to feature identification such as soil disturbances. These strides have been achieved by field-oriented remote sensing experts, including researchers from HyPerspectives, who have demonstrated the capability to (1) precisely identify smalldiscrete landscape features over large spatial areas and (2) detect changes in those features, both necessary requirements for accurate and precise soil disturbance detection. Hyperspectral sensors excel in discriminating subtle changes in landscapeconditions. The second active technology is synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capable of measuring return rates from a host of different wavelengths. The weaknesses of SAR data are the strengths of hyperspectral imagery and analysis. Using enhancedhigh-resolution spectral analysis, and innovative spatial analysis; the two technologies can be combined to precisely discriminate small area landscape disturbances. The proposed project recognizes the complimentary strengths of hyperspectral and SARimagery. The project identifies, tests fusion algorithms and demonstrates a new set of tools to more precisely identify soil disturbances at the pixel and sub-pixel level. The commercial use of hi"
Truth Quest: Enabling Operational/Exercise Data,F33615-02-M-1231,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2002,1,98296.00,"HyPerspectives, Inc.",2048 Analysis Drive,Suite C,Bozeman,MT,59718 6829,Yes,No,No,Ron Cooper,President,4065569880,roncooper@hyperspectives.net,Robert Crabtree,Director Sceince,4065820447,crabtree@yelowstone.org,"""Much of the focus of the ATR effort has focused on target definition within a test site. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) has demonstrated great potential to precisely identify metal-based targets under precise conditions. Though SAR excels in this area,it is far less useful for predicting vegetative, geologic and non-metallic anthropogenic confusion, the forte of hyperspectral data. Using hyperspectral imagery, which records reflectance in 100 plus bands across the visible to middle infrared spectralrange, fused with SAR provides a unique opportunity to significantly enhance the ATR capability of the current SAR-based approach. The project demonstrates how hyperspectral data can contribute to (1) precisely identifying targets located throughout thelandscape using hyperspectral imagery to compliment MSTAR target identification, (2) demonstrate the use of high resolution hyperspectral imagery to precisely identify and classify confusion, (3) develop the algorithms and processes necessary to preciselyanalyze (atmospherically correct, geometrically correct, read and archive, classify and process for integration) using a range of software, existing algorithms, and new algorithms to fuse SAR, hyperspectral and other remotely sensed optical and radar datasets in order to significantly enhance ATR capability across the landscape. The technology will result in new improved methods to precisely detect, measure and describe targets within a"
Development of Versatile Proximity Effect Correction Schemes,0214624,NSF,NSF,STTR,2002,1,99663.00,JC Nabity Lithography Sys,311 Meagher Ave.,,Bozeman,MT,59718 0623,No,No,No,Joseph C. Nabity,,,info@jcnabity.com,Joseph Nabity,,4065870848,info@jcnabity.com,"This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project proposes to create state-of-the-art proximity correction software, which will ultimately be merged with the Nanometer Pattern Generation System, which is an advanced SEM lithography system that is already commercially successful. In recent years, SEM lithography has become an increasingly popular tool in university and government research labs, as well as at industrial R&D labs. The interest in SEM lithography comes from both its low cost and versatile nature when compared to the dedicated e-beam writing systems that are designed primarily for writing full wafers in industrial settings. The purpose of this project is to create an advanced proximity correction system that matches the inherent versatility of a well-designed SEM lithography system such as NPGS. To achieve this goal, this project will investigate the development of two advanced proximity correction techniques that are currently not commercially available. Specifically, the techniques are ""grayscale"" proximity corrections for manufacturing multi-level (grayscale) structures and binary proximity corrections for non-rectangular pattern elements."
Computerized Rangeland Level III Monitoring System,2002-33610-11891,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,79828.00,Land EKG. Inc.,6085 Browning Lane,,Bozeman,MT,59718,Yes,No,No,Sara Orchard,Operations Director,4065827480,sorchard@montana.net,Charles Orchard,,4065827480,corchard@montana.net,"Phase 1 project will research and establish feasibility of integrating three independent, state of the art, rangeland assessment/monitoring techniques. This will produce a standardized, ecologically comprehensive, paper based Level III rangeland monitoring system for use on public and private lands. Project will be collaborated with USDA ARS research scientists. Subsequent research will determine technical feasibility to employ automatic digital recording capabilities with assembled software to speed data entry and management. The US contains more than 300,000,000 hectares of rangeland producing annual estimated forage values of $5.9 billion for agricultural producers, and numerous other economic, ecological, and societal values. The chief commercial use of rangelands in the United States is livestock grazing to produce food, fiber, and draft animals. Serious degradation can and has resulted in the irreversible loss of the capabity of rangelands to produce commodities and satisfy ecological and social values. High value is placed on sustaining and improving resource ""function"" for future generations. Concerns have been raised regarding the ""health"" of rangeland ecosystems, and current scientific data, from multiple evolutionary rangeland monitoring techniques, can not determine whether rangelands are improving or degrading. Research and develoment for an optimal, standardized monitoring system is economically, socially, and environmentally important."
TUBERCLE BACILLI BINDING TO HOST CELLS: VACCINE DESIGN,1R41AI050368-01A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2002,1,205728.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,Michael Mccue,,4065852733,MICHAEL.MCCUE@LIGOCYTE.COM,Luanne Hallstoodley,,4069947382,LUANNE_S@ERC.MONTANA.EDU,"Three million people die each year from tuberculosis (TB) in spite of the use of the existing anti-mycobacterial antibiotics and the BCG vaccine. Clearly, a better vaccine and better ways to
treat TB are needed. The purpose of this STTR Phase I feasibility study is to
evaluate Mycobacterium tuberculosis-binding interactions with several human
cell types and pathogen recognition molecules. Pathogens typically gain entry
to a host tissue by using cell-to-cell recognition and attachment mechanisms.
Conversely, the innate immune system recognizes many common motifs in microbial
cell walls. These motifs are present in M. tuberculosis and bacilli-host
binding interactions are increasingly being identified for M. tuberculosis. The
experimental aim of the proposed study is to functionally evaluate M.
tuberculosis binding interactions with human host molecules and cells under
shear conditions that more accurately simulate physiological conditions in the
lung. By exploring adhesion events we anticipate the discovery of novel
molecular targets that could be used to develop better therapies or an improved
vaccine. Blocking these targets may prevent infection by abrogating initial
attachment by M. tuberculosis to permissive host cells."
GROUP B STREPTOCOCCAL PEPTIDE MIMETIC VACCINE,1R43AI051086-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,580839.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,Michael Mccue,,4065852733,MICHAEL.MCCUE@LIGOCYTE.COM,Pati M. Glee,,4065852733,PATI.GLEE@LIGOCYTE.COM,"Group B streptococcus (GBS) causes invasive infections of newborns, pregnant women and adults with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or cancer. Despite antibiotic treatment, estimated case fatality rates of 5-20% in neonates and 15-32% in adults establish the prevention of GBS infections as a public health priority. Peptide immunogens that mimic the structure of GBS capsular polysacharide (CPS) antigens would provide an alternate vaccine strategy, compared to currently tested CPS-conjugates for induction of maternal antibodies to prevent neonatal infection. The long-term goal of the proposed research is to develop a multi-valent peptide mimotope vaccine for prevention of GBS infections caused by the predominant serotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, and V. The proposed work is a direct extension of research identifying peptides that mimic type III CPS. Phase I use anti-CPS antibodies to select phage libraries to identify peptides that bind uniquely to the antibodies; and to determine whether the selected peptides are true mimotopes of the CPS. Phase II innovative vaccine approaches utilizing peptide mimotopes of microbial polysaccharides offer the design and development of T-dependent immune responses and better immunologic memory for prevention of disease."
Predicting Pesticide Toxicity via QSAR and Ensembles,2002-33610-11808,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,80000.00,MedIntel,313 N. California Street,,Helena,MT,59601,No,No,No,Timothy L. Nagel,Chief Operations Officer,4064494741,nagelt@qwest.net,Timothy L. Nagel,,4064494741,nagelt@qwest.net,"Chemical numbers are rising dramatically with limited hazard assessment testing completed. Vast majorities of compounds have not undergone even basic toxicity testing despite FIFRA (Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, & Rodenticide Act), TSCA (Toxic Substance Control Act), and increased safety standards via FQPA (Food Quality Protection Act) legislation. Manufacturer testing costs routinely reach $10 to $50 million for a single compound. There is simply not enough time or money to complete test batteries for even a portion of today's registered compounds. Necessary alternatives involve developing computational hazard assessment models, however, such modeling is restricted. Computational developments require methodologies for accurate quantitative predictions, utilization of only limited sparse experimental data, and applicability to a wide variety of compound classes & biological endpoints. This research tests feasibility for novel mathematical chemistry tools to meet computational and pesticide hazard assessment challenges via: 1) Software calculators that estimate non-empirical structural descriptors (QSAR, Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships) for pesticides directly from structure to augment sparse experimental data sets and avoid measurement costs; 2) An innovative hierarchical hQSAR/TM/ strategy to select the descriptors most relevant for hazard endpoints; 3) Model building algorithms that use sophisticated machine-learning tools based on artificial neural networks (GEFS/TM/, Genetic Ensemble Feature Selection) to accurately predict toxicity."
Automated Microbiological Water Quality Monitor,NAS9-01145,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,1,69480.00,"Montana Microbiological Services,llc.",2010 N. 7th Ave.,,Bozeman,MT,59715 0257,No,No,No,James Smith,Business Official,4065865590,Jim00@in-tch.com,James Smith PhD,Principal Investigator,4065865590,Jim00@in-tch.com,"In order to permit humans to live and work safely in space NASA has a need for in flight automated monitoring of microbiological water quality in regenerative life support systems. Such monitoring is used to ensure and maintain water treatment efficacy and protect crew health. Existing standard microbiological monitoring techniques are labor intensive and/or produce large volumes of biological and chemical waste. These factors render these methods unattractive for in-flight monitoring use. We propose an innovative multi-sample, in-line, automated system for the enumeration of heterotrophic indicator bacteria in water supplies. These organisms are commonly used to monitor efficacy of water treatment and disinfection processes. This innovative fluidics-based integrative technology makes use of in-line automated sampling, metabolic cell indicators, and photometry. The proposed system is automated, rugged, minimally sample consumptive/waste productive, small and low power. The technology is also adaptable for detection of other microbial indicators, allowing for use in regulatory compliance monitoring. The system eliminates the need for manual sampling (which can cause sample contamination itself), shipping (if required), and laboratory-based analysis. Significant commercial potential exists with such a monitoring system for public and critical applications water supply monitoring. These include drinking, bathing and industrial applications waters."
Resonant-Mixing of Gelled Propellants,DAAH01-02-C-R013,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2002,2,728296.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,Steven McGrath,Chief Research Chemist,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,"""Gelled bipropellants provide advantages over liquid or solid gels. The conversion of advanced liquid oxidizers and fuels to gel greatly increases the safety of storage and use of bipropulsion materials in missile systems. Operational advantages of thegelled propellents over solid fuels include the ability to modulate fuel burn rate. The deliverable for this Phase II proposal is an advanced mixer/reactor system that is ideally suited for the manufacture of bipropellant. The technology, ResonantSonicVariable Volume Mixer-Reactor (RVVMR), uses high intensity, low frequency energy, coupled with a mixing technology developed by the Army Missile Command (AMCOM) into a system that has been demonstrated in Phase I as an effective gelled propellant mixingtechnology. The Phase II project presented below embodies the development, design, fabrication and delivery of a fully operational RVVMR system to AMCOM, as well as developing commercial applications with an industrial chemical company strategic partnerwho will contribute to the Phase II research. The RVVMR technology will be suitable for making production batches of conventional gelled propellents, and will have great utility for use in the development of advanced gels for bipropulsion systems. TheRVVMR technology also offers a unique solution to many contemporary mixing problems."""
Innovative Enzymatic Reactor for Production of Alternative Fuels,2002-33610-11881,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,80000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Steve F. McGrath,,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,"The Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative reactor for the production of alterantive fuels with complete conversion of free fatty acids coupled with continuous recovery of products. Key features of the continuous process for the conversion of agricultural by-products to biodiesel are: Ability to utilize low cost agricultural by-products such as vegetable oils, tallow, and yellow grease to develop a value-added industrial biodiesel production process; Continuous recovery of products to eliminate end-product inhibition for the process and shift thermodynamic equilibrium to the product direction. The novel reactor will be used to address all the major limitations of the contemporary processes enabling cost competitive production of biodisel, without generation of any waste by-products. Biodiesel is a nontoxic, biodegradable replacement for petroleum diesel. Currently, biodiesel is produced by a process called transesterification. The vegetable oil or animal fat is first filtered, then preprocessed with alkali to remove free fatty acids. It is then mixed with an alcohol (usually methanol) and a catalyst (usually sodium or potassium hydroxide). The oils' tri-glycerides react to form esters and glycerol, that are then separated from each other and purified. This is an expensive, complex process. The novel process that will result out of this Phase I project circumvent these issues and provides for a process that produces a high quality biodiesel and glycerol product independent of the feedstock composition or moisture content. No waste products are produced in the one-step process. This project will result in a step change in technology development enabling the low cost production of biodiesel from a variety of feedstocks including vegetable oils, (soya, rape and canola), tallows and yellow grease."
The Resonant Sonic Fluidized Bed (RSFB) Biofilter for Closed Loop Aquaculture,DG1330-02-CN-0040,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2002,1,50000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Steven McGrath,Senior Research Scientist,4067232222,smcgrath@montecresearch.com,"Because of the impact of diseases on production and the environmental devastation wrought by commercial aquaculture effluents, modern methods of intensive aquaculture are evolving which rely heavily on the re-use of water. This proposal addresses the need for modular technology in closed loop aquaculture operations by enhancing the performance of a fluidized bed biofilter with low- frequency acoustic agitation to accelerate mass transfer of dissolved oxygen and other components. The low shear agitation will enable biofilms of active organisms to thrive on the support media. Additionally, the agitation will prevent fouling of the media with organic material, which severely compromises the ability of the filter to reduce ammonia concentrations. The Resonant Sonic Fluidized Bed (RSFB) Biofilter will provide a low cost improvement that will enable a small modular treatment unit to function with the same efficiency as a much larger system."
SBIR Phase I: A Novel Resonant-Enhanced Crystallization Process,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2002,1,99999.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Fangxiao Yang,,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to develop a novel Resonant-Enhanced Crystallization (REC) Process. REC technology is similar to conventional impeller stirring crystallization but with enhanced mass and heat transfer, low shear or reduced crystal breakage, and improved crystal size distribution. Purification and separation by crystallization is a multicomponent mass transfer phenomenon of the crystallizing solute and impurity solutes. Mass and heat transfer in crystallization process are key factors affecting crystal growth rate, size distribution and habit. However, in conventional crystallizers, the mass transfer coefficient is maximized when crystals are in their terminal velocity and increased agitation results in significant crystal breakage. The proposed technology will further increase mass transfer even in cases where crystals are in suspended status. Due to the low shear associated with the acoustic agitation, crystal breakage will be minimal. The second nucleation will also be reduced and therefore, crystal size distribution will be improved. The objective of this proposed research is to incorporate low-frequency acoustic agitation to the crystallization process to greatly enhance mass and heat transfer. This is expected to improve crystal growth rate, size distribution and quality.
The commercial applications of this project are in the area of pharmaceutical separation and purification."
SBIR/STTR Phase I:Accoustically Enhanced Airlift Bioreactor,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2002,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Steve McGrath,,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovative Research Project proposes to combine a novel low-frequency acoustic energy technology with an airlift bioreactor. This is expected to provide a dramatic increase in bioreactor productivity by greatly increasing mass transport. The proposed technology will meet contemporary industry needs for a high productivity, low-shear bioreactor that can be used to economically produce a broad range of traditional and newly emerging biochemicals and bioproducts.
The commercial applications of this project include the culturing of pharmaceuticals and other biochemicals from a broad range of organisms including plant cells, mammalian cells, fungi, bacteria and yeast."
HIGH DENSITY METALLIZED GEL PROPELLANT,DASG60-02-P-0194,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2002,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Madan Parvatiyar,Senior Research Scientist,4067232222,madan@montecresearch.com,"""A novel method of micro-mixing by inducing a low frequency resonant sonic vibration (LFRSV) in the fluid medium results in the increased rate of energy dissipation per unit mass of the fluid, allowing rapid and efficient dispersion of solids, gases, andimmiscible liquids. This enhanced way of achieving micro mixing, can be used for dispersing nano particles in making gel propellants. Rheological properties of the metallized gel propellants are very much depend on the homogeneity of the metallized gelpropellant made. In order to have a smooth and efficient burning of the metallized gel propellant, a uniform distribution of the dispersed metal powder is desired. Pulsating flow due to the presence of inhomogeneity in particle suspension density, mayinitiate combustion instability during combustion. Through the use of LFRSV technology, a uniform rheological properties of the high density metallized propellants can be achieved. Testing their ignition delay measurement with respect to red fumingnitric as an oxidant will carry out a further characterization of the prepared propellants from different liquid fuels. A comparative performance of all the prepared high density metallized propellants will be evaluated. A commercially available LowFrequency Resonant Sonic Vibration (LFRSV) reactor will be of great interest to research and industrial communities. Out of many applications possible, in particular, biotechnology and high energy"
Thermal Spray of UV/Visible Light-Curable Polymide Powders,NAS3-02164,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,Business Official,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Lawrence Farrar,Principal Investigator,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,"The proposed innovative method for spraying UV-curable powders answers a critical NASA need for advanced coatings, and capitalizes on exciting commercial market opportunities. The technology employed combines UV/visible radiation with proprietary thermal spray processing methods yields an effective spray coating system for applying UV-curable powders without the use of solvents. The spray process and the lay-up aspects of the powder spray technology address a NASA mandate for producing Advanced Materials with Reduced Emissions. The advanced materials processed with this technology have application in gas turbines, rocket and turbine-based combined cycle engines. The technology enables efficient high quality application of these advanced materials to fabricate lightweight jet engine components and other critical NASA and commercial equipment components. The Phase I technical objectives were fully achieved by demonstrating feasibility of the novel UV/thermal spray technology to coat surfaces using advanced NASA UV-curable polyimide and various commercial UV-curable polymers. This was demonstrated for powder coating conventional materials, heat-sensitive and low-temperature substrates that included metal, glass, natural wood, paper and plastic. The Phase II technical objective is to develop, fabricate and demonstrate a field portable prototype system. Phase II and Phase III matching resource commitments from the private sector of $680,000 have been obtained."
Thermal Spray of UV/Visible Light-Curable Polymide Powders,NAS3-02164,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,2,600000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,Business Official,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,Lawrence Farrar,Principal Investigator,4067232222,lcfarrar@montecresearch.com,"The proposed innovative method for spraying UV-curable powders answers a critical NASA need for advanced coatings, and capitalizes on exciting commercial market opportunities. The technology employed combines UV/visible radiation with proprietary thermal spray processing methods yields an effective spray coating system for applying UV-curable powders without the use of solvents. The spray process and the lay-up aspects of the powder spray technology address a NASA mandate for producing Advanced Materials with Reduced Emissions. The advanced materials processed with this technology have application in gas turbines, rocket and turbine-based combined cycle engines. The technology enables efficient high quality application of these advanced materials to fabricate lightweight jet engine components and other critical NASA and commercial equipment components. The Phase I technical objectives were fully achieved by demonstrating feasibility of the novel UV/thermal spray technology to coat surfaces using advanced NASA UV-curable polyimide and various commercial UV-curable polymers. This was demonstrated for powder coating conventional materials, heat-sensitive and low-temperature substrates that included metal, glass, natural wood, paper and plastic. The Phase II technical objective is to develop, fabricate and demonstrate a field portable prototype system. Phase II and Phase III matching resource commitments from the private sector of $680,000 have been obtained."
SBIR/STTR Phase I: Multi-Phase Acoustic Fluid Micro-Mixing and Mass Transport,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2002,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Thomas Post,,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will establish a method to quantitatively predict the level of micromixing and mass transport in single-phase and multiphase fluid systems that are generated by a novel low-frequency acoustic technology. The primary Phase I objective is to demonstrate the feasibility for development of a theoretical understanding of the governing mechanisms for the transformation of high-intensity, low-frequency, acoustic energy radiation into useful work for mixing and mass transport applications in multi-phase fluids. A secondary, but essential, objective will be to develop the transfer functions coupling the acoustic transducer to the radiated acoustic energy in the fluid. The models will be accompanied by experiment methods that will correlate classical micromixing amd mass transport techniques with acoustic field experiment data. The proposed work will result in establishing a fundamental understanding of the governing mechanisms for acoustically-driven, single-phase and multiphase fluid processes, as well as fluid-particle interactions. The analytical models are essential for exploitation of the industrial market by innovative low-frequency acoustic mixing methods that are emerging. Mixing is the most common operation encountered in the Chemical Processing Industries. In North America alone, the conventional industrial mixer market is between $200 million and $250 million annually. Other industries reliant upon mixing and mass transport include food, petroleum, mining, pharmaceutical, pulp and paper, water treatment and municipal waste water treatment."
SBIR/STTR Phase I: The ResonantSonic Enhanced Mixer and Coalescer (RSEMC) as an Advanced Solvent Extraction Technology,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2002,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Steve McGrath,,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of using an agitation device based on a resonating elastic member for dispersing and coalescing immiscible liquids. This will have a significant impact in the liquid processing for solvent extraction of metals. The proposed technology offers a mixing regime that promotes high mass transfer, yet easy disengagement between immiscible liquids by forming uniform droplet dispersions and creating interfacial activity that increases mass transport. The post-contact phase disengagement can be further enhanced by applying higher frequency energy.
The near term commercial application would be presented by the changing technological landscape of the international mining and metals industries. The shift to leaching technology has created a need for advanced solvent extraction equipment. Applications also exist in the pharmaceutical industry, where solvent extraction is an entrenched and accepted approach to recovering products from microbial fermentation broths."
TAXOL PRODUCTION WITH A NOVEL FERMENTATION REACTOR,1R43CA096455-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,135736.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,,4067232222,ICFARRAR@AOL.COM,Todd A. Mcadams,,4067232222,TMCADAMS@RESODYN.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The specific innovation proposed for this
Phase I project will combine an advanced, novel low-frequency sonic energy
technology with the production of fungal secondary metabolites of
pharmaceutical importance. The Phase 1 project will demonstrate the use of a
novel fermentation reactor to provide improved agitation and aeration during
the in vitro cultivation of the endophytic fungus, Penicililum raistrickii, to
increase the expression of Taxol. It is proposed to optimize the expression of
Taxol by manipulating the fermentation medium and exploiting the unique
features of the low frequency sonic technology to ensure effective renewal of
the critical medium components to the cell membrane. The impact of the
carbohydrate source, nitrogen and phosphate control, addition of pre-cursors,
as well as triggers such as yew tree extract and rival fungal extracts, will be
investigated. The ultimate objective is a commercially viable route to Taxol
based on an optimized strain of Penicillium raistrickii, an optimized
fermentation protocol and a high-intensity, low shear fermentation reactor. The
overall technical target is to achieve Taxol expression of 10 mg/I."
MULTIFUNCTIONAL DENDRITIC TETHERS FOR BIOSENSOR DEVICES,1R43AI053003-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,99690.00,"MPA Technologies, Inc",2100 Fairway Drive,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,Charles Spangler,,4065858192,UCHCS@MONTANA.EDU,Charles W. Spangler,,4065858192,UCHCS@MONTANA.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Our lack of rapid detection protocols for bioterrorism agents, pathogenic agents. and affordable, easy to operate devices suitable for deployment in field environments has been demonstrated by the confusion and the number of deaths due to exposure to anthrax spores in the past several months. It is chilling to envision the potential chaos that results from simultaneous exposure to multiple pathogenic agents. Effective biosensors require a robust, flexible bioactive signal transduction system, based on the attachment of specific antibodies or DNA probes to a biosensor surface, in a microarray or chromatographic formats. In the long term we propose to synthesize monodisperse macromolecular dendrimers that offer unique design capabilities which allow positioning of recombinant antibodies, multivalent functionalities varied depending on the sensor surface, and a variety of reporter molecules, all of which can be varied independent of one another and spatially separated by synthetic design. Recombinant and monoclonal antibodies must be suitably derivatized with a unique functional group for covalent attachment to, and orientation on, the dendritic tether. In this proposal we describe a highly effective and robust design approach consisting of monodisperse, heterobifunctional two-arm dendrimers that can covalently bind to a variety of derivatized antibodies and also possess multiple thiol functionalities to greatly enhance their attachment to gold, for use in surface plasmon resonance devices, quartz crystal microbalance, and colloidal gold biosensors. To conjugate an antibody to the dendrimer tether we provide the tether with a hydrazide functionalized arm and add an aldehyde functional group to serine residues in the peptide tether of a recombinant antibody directed against anthrax protective antigen. To accomplish derivatization of the antibody, a recombinant 0-glycosyltransferase enzyme will be modified by recombinant techniques such that it will transfer a sugar molecule to the serine residues in the peptide linker of the antibody. The proposal is thus two-pronged:(1) to synthesize dendritic tethers having one arm derivatized for attachment to a gold surface and one arm with a hydrazide functionality (2) to functionalize a previously unglycosylated antibody with a reactive aldehyde group. The result is an antigen-specific capture agent tethered to a dendrimer functionalized for attachment to a biosensor surface."
Biofilm Capture of Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents,DAAH01-03-C-R037,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2002,2,374944.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis Moore,"VP, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Garth James,Senior Microbiologist,4065867869,gjames@mse-ta.com,"""The potential use of biological and chemical warfare agents presents a threat to both military and civilian communities. The properties of biofilms can be exploited to improve the detection of these agents. Biofilms consist of microorganisms growing on asurface and enmeshed in a polymer matrix. Observation of biofilms in a variety of environments indicate they have a natural ability to capture a wide range of organic and inorganic substances from their surroundings. This property allows biofilms toconcentrate trace quantities of hazardous substances, which can be used to improve techniques for the detection of chemical or biological warfare agents in the environment. Additionally, retention of these captured substances by biofilms may allow users toattribute a contamination event to its source. Improved methods for the detection and removal of toxic contaminants from the environment will increase the safety of military personnel and civilian populations."""
Biofilm Barrier for In Situ Groundwater Denitrification,2002-33610-12401,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,0.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis J. Moore,"Manager, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Garth James,,4065867869,gjames@mse-ta.com,"Biofilm barriers are a promising new technology for the containment and remediation of groundwater contaminated with nitrate and other pollutants. These barriers are formed by subsurface injection of bacteria and/or nutrient solutions to stimulate the growth of bacteria that produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and also may degrade contaminants. The engineered accumulation of biomass and EPS in the subsurface is used to control groundwater flow and enhance treatment strategies. For example, a biofilm barrier can be used as a ""funnel"" to channel contaminated groundwater to a treatment zone. Unlike many other barrier technologies, biofilm barriers cause minimal surface disturbance and have no obvious depth limitation. MSE Technology Applications, Inc., along with collaborators at the Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, has successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of biofilm barriers in systems ranging from small laboratory models to a large-scale test cell. This test cell contained a 180-foot long by 20-foot deep biofilm barrier that was used as part of Phase I SBIR research to show complete denitrification of a nitrate plume. The next logical step in the development of this technology is field-scale research. The primary objectives of this research are to evaluate, under actual field conditions, the ability to control groundwater flow using a biofilm barrier system and to determine the effectiveness of the biofilm barrier to remove nitrate from groundwater. Following successful completion of this field demonstration, MSE will market the technology for the cleanup of nitrate-contaminated groundwater."
The Use of Viscous Liquid Grouts for Temporary Repair at Underground High-Level Waste Storage Tanks at Hanford during Sludge Removal,DE-FG03-02ER83513,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2002,1,99617.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis J. Moore,70623,4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Mary N. Abbott,,4064947332,northabb@mse-ta.com,"70623 Leakage of contaminants during the removal of sludge from underground storage tanks at DOE┐s Hanford facility poses a serious risk to the environment. Contaminated sludge is planned for removal by sluicing the tanks with liquid (water) to dislodge the sludge and then pumping from the tank. Unfortunately, as a result of tank deterioration, the potential exists for the release of a large volume of radioactive contaminants into the subsurface that can migrate to the groundwater. This project will develop technology for injecting viscous liquid grout in the subsurface area around the tank(s) to prevent the release of contaminants mobilized by the sluicing of the tanks for sludge removal. In Phase I, a series of injection and column tests are proposed on two types of viscous grouts, colloidal silica and polysiloxane, to determine injectability and compatibility with the subsurface soils at Hanford. Test measurements will include gel time, gel strength, and cure time and properties. Hydraulic conductivity testing will be performed after curing of the grout to determine soil hydraulic conductivity. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The subsurface sealing material would allow for the emplacement of a containment barrier around suspected leaking tanks to control and prevent the release of subsurface contamination during sludge and tank removal. Compared to excavation and disposal of highly contaminated soils, this technology would provide a cost-effective method for source control and interim isolation of waste, reduce worker exposure at hazardous/radioactive sites, and allow emplacement without damaging underground infrastructure."
Biofilm Barrier for In Situ Groundwater Denitrification,2002-33610-12401,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,2,296000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis J. Moore,"Manager, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Garth James,,4065867869,gjames@mse-ta.com,"Biofilm barriers are a promising new technology for the containment and remediation of groundwater contaminated with nitrate and other pollutants. These barriers are formed by subsurface injection of bacteria and/or nutrient solutions to stimulate the growth of bacteria that produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and also may degrade contaminants. The engineered accumulation of biomass and EPS in the subsurface is used to control groundwater flow and enhance treatment strategies. For example, a biofilm barrier can be used as a ""funnel"" to channel contaminated groundwater to a treatment zone. Unlike many other barrier technologies, biofilm barriers cause minimal surface disturbance and have no obvious depth limitation. MSE Technology Applications, Inc., along with collaborators at the Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, has successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of biofilm barriers in systems ranging from small laboratory models to a large-scale test cell. This test cell contained a 180-foot long by 20-foot deep biofilm barrier that was used as part of Phase I SBIR research to show complete denitrification of a nitrate plume. The next logical step in the development of this technology is field-scale research. The primary objectives of this research are to evaluate, under actual field conditions, the ability to control groundwater flow using a biofilm barrier system and to determine the effectiveness of the biofilm barrier to remove nitrate from groundwater. Following successful completion of this field demonstration, MSE will market the technology for the cleanup of nitrate-contaminated groundwater."
"Applying French Label Rouge Poultry Systems to the US ""Pastured Poultry"" Movement",2002-33610-11890,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2002,1,79720.00,"New Horizon Technologies, Inc.",3040 Continental Drive,,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Vicki Paul,Administrative Manager,4064944577,vpaul@newhorizontech.com,Holly Born,,5014429824,hollyb@ncatark.uark.edu,"Pastured Poultry is a grassroots movement that focuses on farm-scale production and direct-marketing to consumers. It provides supplemental income in rural areas but is limited by the number of birds a producer can realistically produce and market from the farm. Pastured poultry producers report good demand, but market penetration is not deep, since most consumers do not have direct contact with farmers. Producers typically use genetics designed for confinement systems. An industry is emerging from the grassroots movement but it remains uncoordinated. In France, free-range poultry produced under the Label Rouge national certification system command 30% of the market at high premium prices. Specialty pastured genetics are used. Label Rouge started as a grassroots movement 40 years ago. We propose to examine the feasibility of applying Label Rouge features to the grassroots movement and emerging industry in the US. Integrated production, processing, and marketing trials will be conducted on-farm to compare specialty genetics to standard genetics. Sensory analysis will be performed on the meat. We will carry out a farmer-led analysis of the feasibility of developing coordinated supply chains based on the French structure, and work with private certifying agencies to analyze the establishment of a quality label certification system."
SBIR Phase I: eTandem Distance Coaching,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2002,1,170787.00,"Parvis, Inc.",910 Technology Blvd. Suite A,,Bozeman,MT,59718,Yes,No,No,,,,,Dawn D'Atri,,4065569772,d.datri@parvis.de,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of a distance coaching system for foreign language learners using the tandem method through electronic media (eTandem). The objectives of the proposed research are to establish a fundamental understanding of issues and parameters affecting eTandem distance coaching and to demonstrate feasibility of an eTandem distance coaching system. Language learners lacking access to foreign language learning opportunities will be targeted. Rural and disadvantaged learners are key target groups. Tandem is an autonomous form of language learning where two native speakers of different languages form a reciprocal learning partnership. Tandem coaching was conceived, researched and demonstrated to improve the effectiveness of the tandem learning process. Since 1994, Tandem has been practiced using electronic media (eTandem) with great success. The concept of distance coaching for eTandem learners, not previously researched, offers high potential to advance language learning and intercultural exchange for an international audience.
Parvis proffers a system, eTandem coaching, with potential for a dramatic impact on distance foreign language learning worldwide, serving a wide range of possible customers from K-12 to adult education."
Laser Materials for Remote Sensing of Ozone,NAS1-02071,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,1,0.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,Presidet,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Randy W. Equall,Research Scientist,4065853772,rwesm@montana.com,"Space based lidar systems for the remote sensing of Ozone require high-power, high-efficiency lasers operating in the ultraviolet. Diode-pumped solid-state lasers are the primary candidates for this application. Operation in the ultraviolet is typically achieved through two or three frequency conversion steps using nonlinear optical materials. This reduces the efficiency of the laser systems placing very stringent demands on the laser design and the gain media. A promising material for use in lasers for the remote sensing of Ozone is Nd:Y2O3 operating at 914 nm and 948 nm using the 4F3/2 to 4I9/2 transition of the Nd3+ ion. This material offers several advantages over other crystals, including a lower threshold for oscillation of this transition, a high thermal conductivity, and a broad transmission range from 0.23 microns to 8 microns. Recent studies indicate that this material is well suited to Ozone lidar applications provided that crystals of sufficient size and quality are available. This Phase I SBIR project is aimed at developing growth systems to produce high optical quality Y2O3 and at demonstrating proof of concept for scaling of such systems to produce laser rods of sufficient size for use in lasers systems capable of meeting NASA's requirements for Ozone sensing."
Laser Materials for Remote Sensing of Ozone,NAS1-02071,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,2,600000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,Presidet,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Randy W. Equall,Research Scientist,4065853772,rwesm@montana.com,"Space based lidar systems for the remote sensing of Ozone require high-power, high-efficiency lasers operating in the ultraviolet. Diode-pumped solid-state lasers are the primary candidates for this application. Operation in the ultraviolet is typically achieved through two or three frequency conversion steps using nonlinear optical materials. This reduces the efficiency of the laser systems placing very stringent demands on the laser design and the gain media. A promising material for use in lasers for the remote sensing of Ozone is Nd:Y2O3 operating at 914 nm and 948 nm using the 4F3/2 to 4I9/2 transition of the Nd3+ ion. This material offers several advantages over other crystals, including a lower threshold for oscillation of this transition, a high thermal conductivity, and a broad transmission range from 0.23 microns to 8 microns. Recent studies indicate that this material is well suited to Ozone lidar applications provided that crystals of sufficient size and quality are available. This Phase I SBIR project is aimed at developing growth systems to produce high optical quality Y2O3 and at demonstrating proof of concept for scaling of such systems to produce laser rods of sufficient size for use in lasers systems capable of meeting NASA's requirements for Ozone sensing."
Laser Gain Media for Wavelength Specific Applications,NAS1-02104,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,1,70000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Randy W. Equall,Principal Investigator,4065853772,rwesm@montana.com,"Diode pumped solid state lasers have proven to be well suited for use in space based and airborne Lidar systems for remote sensing. These types of lasers are capable of operating at high efficiency while remaining both compact and extremely rugged. However, one of the primary limitations of such systems has been that the laser gain media operates only at specific wavelengths determined by the active dopant ion. These wavelengths do not necessarily match absorption features or transmission windows specific to a given application. Scientific Materials Corp. has recently developed innovative laser gain media that provides operation at the desired wavelength without the need for frequency conversion or tuning elements. It is the purpose of this Phase II SBIR to improve the optical homogeneity and optimize the performance of these materials for diode pumping, as well as scale the growth of these materials to allow implementation in a variety of cavity designs. Based on previous results, the primary material of interest will be Nd3+ doped crystals of YAG(1-x)YSAGx for operation at 944.1 nm for use in lasers for lidar systems designed for remote sensing of atmospheric water vapor."
Laser Gain Media for Wavelength Specific Applications,NAS1-02104,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2002,2,600000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Randy W. Equall,Principal Investigator,4065853772,rwesm@montana.com,"Diode pumped solid state lasers have proven to be well suited for use in space based and airborne Lidar systems for remote sensing. These types of lasers are capable of operating at high efficiency while remaining both compact and extremely rugged. However, one of the primary limitations of such systems has been that the laser gain media operates only at specific wavelengths determined by the active dopant ion. These wavelengths do not necessarily match absorption features or transmission windows specific to a given application. Scientific Materials Corp. has recently developed innovative laser gain media that provides operation at the desired wavelength without the need for frequency conversion or tuning elements. It is the purpose of this Phase II SBIR to improve the optical homogeneity and optimize the performance of these materials for diode pumping, as well as scale the growth of these materials to allow implementation in a variety of cavity designs. Based on previous results, the primary material of interest will be Nd3+ doped crystals of YAG(1-x)YSAGx for operation at 944.1 nm for use in lasers for lidar systems designed for remote sensing of atmospheric water vapor."
"Keyhole Squeeze-Off Tool to Enable Repair of Large (4"" and 6"") Polyethylene Gas Pipes",DE-FG03-02ER83559,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2002,1,100000.00,Timberwolf Corporation,P.O.Box 1328,,Whitefish,MT,59937-0132,No,No,No,Jeanine M. Green,70281,4067554259,jmg@timerlinetool.com,Kenneth H. Green,,4067554258,khg@timberlinetool.com,"70281 The aging and expanding natural gas transmission and distribution network in the United States, based on the material polyethylene (PE), has a critical need for economical and ecologically sound ┬┐keyhole┬┐ repair techniques. The important first step in any gas line repair is to stop the flow of natural gas. Typically, this involves squeeze-off procedures. However, there are no current tools available that allow an operator to squeeze-off gas flow from small ┬┐keyhole,┬┐ openings in larger 4┬┐ and 6┬┐ PE pipes. This project will develop, demonstrate, and manufacture an innovative ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool that can safely squeeze-off large (4┬┐ and 6┬┐) diameter polyethylene pipe in keyhole access situations. In Phase I, a test ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool will be designed, fabricated and tested for large (4┬┐ and 6┬┐) diameter polyethylene natural gas pipe. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: With the potential for thousands of large pipe squeeze-off operations annually, there is a significant commercial potential for the ┬┐squeeze-off┬┐ tool. This tool should provide a safe, convenient, and quick shut-off for the repair of natural gas lines, saving many hours and dollars and eliminating the need for dangerous, costly and lengthy excavations."
Neurophysiological Based Methods of Guided Image Search,NMA401-02-C-0007,DOD,NGA,SBIR,2002,1,99558.00,Veridical Research and Design Corporation,211 W. Main - Lower Level,PO Box 6503,Bozeman,MT,59771-6503,No,No,No,Frank M. Marchak,Principal,4065229045,fmarchak@veridicalresearch.com,Frank M. Marchak,Principal,4065229045,fmarchak@veridicalresearch.com,"""Complex analysis of intelligence imagery is crucial to the missions of intelligence organizations, yet remains constrained by labor-intensive, time-consuming visual search of large volumes of imagery. Many algorithms have been developed to automaticallyidentify regions of interest in large, complex sets of imagery, yet the utility of such algorithms is limited by the fact that human analysts detect features in imagery with higher accuracy than existing methods. We propose to develop a new model of visualfeature detection, Neuronal Synchrony Model, based on neurophysiological models of temporal neuronal processing, to improve the accuracy of automatic detection of features of interest in complex natural imagery. The Neuronal Synchrony Model of imagefeature detection will be applied to accurately identify and highlight regions of images that contain target features, thus automating the labor-intensive, ""scanning"" portion of imagery analysis. The accuracy of the Neuronal Synchrony Model will be testedwith natural images containing visually controlled, synthetic targets as well as with natural targets using a variety of overhead imagery background and target types. The output of this effort will be a proof-of-concept demonstration of the effectivenessof this model in enhancing the speed and accuracy of interactive, guided visual search of representative imagery. Anticipated benefits of this effort are increased accuracy and speed of proc"
Corrosion Prediction: Assessing the Effect of Corrosion Protection System Aging,F33615-02-C-5619,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2002,2,747365.00,"S&K Technologies, Inc.","56 Old Highway 93 North, Box 339",,St. Ignatius,MT,59865-0339,No,Yes,No,John W. Wensits,Program Manager,9372291265,john.wensits@notes.udayton.edu,Jill S. Ullett,Senior Scientist,9372294717,jill.ullett@notes.udayton.edu,"The proposed work includes both laboratory analysis of coated coupons and field diagnostics of aircraft. Laboratory aging of multiple coating systems will be conducted under various aging cycles with the effects of fluid exposure (wash fluid, de-ice,etc.) included. Failure analysis of coupons will be correlated with on-aircraft measurements. A predictive model for coating life will be tuned and validated. A web-accessible database containing data generated during this project by S&K and by Boeing.This database will be structured with guidance from CTIO and AFRL/ML coating scientists to ensure a robust design for future data input and mining by others."
N/A,0110490,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Sean Christian,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,N/A
N/A,0110490,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,2,499540.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Sean Christian,,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,N/A
Phase-locked Fiber Lasr Array,F29601-01-C-0016,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Rand Swanson,Chief Operating Officer,4065220388,swanson@advr-inc.com,Gregg Switzer,Laser Physicist,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"The purpose of this Phase II effort is to build a rugged, compact optical phased array for coherent addition of laser beams, a crucial building block for multi-kilowatt continuous wave laser devices. This effort builds on the success of the Phase I effortwhere it was shown that an array of electro-optic waveguides in Potassium Titanyl Phosphate (KTP) could be used for phase control. The low-voltage device can control the phase of each laser beam utilizing individually addressable waveguides that areseparated from each other by 250 mm. A phase front sensor will be used to provide a feedback system for coherent addition of the output laser beams. The completed device will be connectorized so components such as high-power fiber amplifiers can be easilyinserted or replaced. Because multiple phased array modules can be cascaded and operated in parallel, the technology is highly scalable. Additionally, the KTP waveguides are transparent across a spectral range from 350 nm to 4500 nm, allowing thistechnology to be used for the generation of high-power laser beams at numerous wavelengths using currently available laser amplifiers. This will enable or improve high-power laser applications for the military, medical, laser machining, and scientificcommunities."
Phase-locked Fiber Lasr Array,F29601-01-C-0016,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2001,2,735113.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Rand Swanson,Chief Operating Officer,4065220388,swanson@advr-inc.com,Gregg Switzer,Laser Physicist,4065220388,switzer@advr-inc.com,"The purpose of this Phase II effort is to build a rugged, compact optical phased array for coherent addition of laser beams, a crucial building block for multi-kilowatt continuous wave laser devices. This effort builds on the success of the Phase I effortwhere it was shown that an array of electro-optic waveguides in Potassium Titanyl Phosphate (KTP) could be used for phase control. The low-voltage device can control the phase of each laser beam utilizing individually addressable waveguides that areseparated from each other by 250 mm. A phase front sensor will be used to provide a feedback system for coherent addition of the output laser beams. The completed device will be connectorized so components such as high-power fiber amplifiers can be easilyinserted or replaced. Because multiple phased array modules can be cascaded and operated in parallel, the technology is highly scalable. Additionally, the KTP waveguides are transparent across a spectral range from 350 nm to 4500 nm, allowing thistechnology to be used for the generation of high-power laser beams at numerous wavelengths using currently available laser amplifiers. This will enable or improve high-power laser applications for the military, medical, laser machining, and scientificcommunities."
Intermodal Shipping Containers for Live Aquatic Product,2001-33610-10381,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,1,69957.00,"Allied Engineering Services, Inc.",32 Discovery Drive,,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Terry L. Threlkeld,President,4065820221,Terry@AlliedEngineering.com,Douglas S. Chandler,,4065820221,Doug@AlliedEngineering.com,"The proposed research is to evaluate the feasibility of a volume transport and holding container for live fish and aquatic product. The proposed container would aerate, cool and circulate water using liquid air and no external power supply. The technology would allow a cost effective means to maintain a hibernation-like torpor in fish to overcome physiological constraints of volume live transport and holding. The technology would: allow up to several weeks transport/holding times; allow denser packing of fish with less water; minimize respiration and fish discharges; eliminate the need for feeding during transport/holding; and minimize stress to fish. Preliminary estimates of shipping costs from an inland U.S. location to an Asian port would be less than $1.00 per pound of fish including: the capital costs of the container and components: all shipping and handling of fish and water; liquid air; and return shipping (empty) of the containers. The Phase I research would focus on two major feasibility issues: 1) The engineering of the tank and components; and 2) The physiological effects on the fish of cooling, holding, and then warming. The research utilizes a team of engineers and fish biologists employed by Allied Engineering Services, Inc. and Montana State University."
Alternative Container Design for Large Acreage Revegetataion,2001-33610-10361,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,1,69550.00,Bitterroot Restoration Inc.,445 Quest Lane,,Corvallis,MT,59828,No,No,No,Patrick Burke,President,4069614991,pat@bitterrootrestoration.com,Tim W. Meikle,,4069614991,timm@bitterrootrestoration.com,"Revegetation of arid lands disturbed by fire, or by cropping, mining, and other activities, represent a continuous and substantial expenditure by the responsible entities. In 1999, the U.S. Department of Agriculture expenditures for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) in Washington were several million dollars. Likewise, fire rehabilitation work accounts for several million dollars annually. The dominant revegetation method currently used on large-acreage projects (i.e.,-fire rehabilitation) is helicopter seeding which has proven to be largely ineffective. Standard containers have been developed for re-forestation and horticultural applications. These containers are currently used in minor quantities for arid land reclamation. Although highly successful in terms of plant survival and growth, these containers are not considered economically viable for large-scale projects. An alternative container that allows for higher growing densities, short-term production intervals, and outplanting with the seeding would minimize economic inputs while allowing for maximum production. Thus, BRI proposes to test the concept embodied in USDA-ARS ""Booth Tube"" as an alternative container for large acreage arid- land projects."
Composite Supports for High Throughput Chromatography,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,4067285897,CHELATEC@AOL.COM,Richard F. Hammen,,,,N/A
Composite Supports for High Throughput Chromatography,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,2,404892.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,4067285897,CHELATEC@AOL.COM,Richard F. Hammen,,,,N/A
"SBIR Phase I: High Throughput, Ion Selective Metal Separation Composites",0060702,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,1,99994.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,Richard F. Hammen,President,4067285897,chelatec@aol.com,Richard Hammen,,4067285897,chelatec@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop high throughput metal ion-selective separation composites for the extraction and purification of critical metals in production, and water and metal recycling environments. The problem this research addresses is the high cost and inefficiency of existing metal separation resins. Ion exchange processes operate by passing the metal-containing solution through a bed of porous particles with functional chemistry inside the pores. Since the solution prefers to flow around the particle, the diffusion of metal ions into the pores is slow and rate limiting. This research literally turns the pore diffusion problem inside out by synthesizing composite column matrices composed of solid nonporous particles. The composite materials are assembled by formation of thinly crosslinked, functional polymers that are covalently tethered in the interstitial volumes between solid particles. The polymer networks can be visualized as an array of 'spider webs' suspended in the micron-scale interparticle volumes of the composite columns. The strands of the nano spider webs are functionalized with metal-selective chelating reagents. The research objectives are to synthesize and test transition metal-selective extraction composites. The project is expected to produce prototype high throughput columns that are manufacturable at an extremely low cost. The commercial applications of the research involve most fields of water and metal separations. The uses include extraction of toxic metals from water, water deionization and recycling, semiconductor wastewater recycling, and the mining of copper, gold, platinum, nickel, and cobalt"
COMPOSITE SUPPORTS FOR RAPID POLYNUCLEOTIDE SYNTHESIS,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,99975.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,4067285897,CHELATEC@AOL.COM,Richard F. Hammen,,,,"DESCRIPTION (applicant's abstract): Modern DNA synthesis methods make use of
porous solid phase supports that are used to immobilize the first base in the
sequence. This process is inherently inefficient, because solutes and solvent
flowing through a column of porous media prefer the path of least resistance.
Flow naturally goes around the particles, rather than through the tortuous
pathway of the pores where the synthetic DNA is being made. This causes slow
reaction kinetics and poor use of expensive reagents. A more serious problem is
the fact that it is not feasible to synthesize long polynucleotides. The size
constraints of the narrow pores make it impossible to prepare long DNA
sequences in acceptable yields and purities. This Phase I Research proposes to
literally turn this problem inside out, by synthesizing composite materials
consisting of nonporous particles with spider webs of functional polymers
crossing the interstitial spaces between the particles. The Aim of this
Research is to attach nucleosides to the spider webs and synthesize DNA that
will be positioned thousands of Angstroms from the surface of the solid
support. Prototype products will be developed in Phase I, and tested for their
yields of synthetic DNA production.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The composite materials developed in this Research will enable the high speed, low cost,
production of both short and long DNA sequences. This will have a revolutionary effect
in the entire biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, and will reduce product
development time and costs."
Software Relating Genes to Disease and Clinical Outcomes,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,99650.00,"Golden Helix, Inc.",203 Enterprise Blvd Ste 1,,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,,,4065858137,LAMBERT@GOLDENHELIX.COM,Christophe G. Lambert,,,,"DESCRIPTION (Applicant's abstract): The development of a software system is
proposed that will combine statistical theory, computer science algorithms, and
genetics expertise to take advantage of the great influx of data generated by
both the study of the human genome and the creation of inexpensive genotyping
techniques. This software will elucidate the complex relationship between drug
efficacy and side effects, and multiple interacting genes and environmental
factors. Preliminary results, obtained by using simulated data, indicate that
it might be feasible to link phenotype to genotype for a list of ""candidate
genes."" The statistical methods are expected to be successful even if the
disease mechanism can differ from one person to another. By analyzing and
interpreting clinical trial data, the software will match drugs to target
populations according to their specific genotype. This will enable
pharmaceutical companies to create novel drugs that render maximum
effectiveness and have minimum side effects, i.e. the right drug for the right
person.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The target markets for the research include pharmaceutical companies, CRO'S
universities, and government agencies. It has good potential for commercialization
because it is expected to help create novel drugs, boost the safety of drug treatments,
save substantial resources, and make sense of complex genotype/phenotype relationships
in clinical trials context."
N/A,50-DKNA-1-90043,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2001,1,75000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Steve Mcgrath,SENIOR RESEARCH CHEMIST,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,N/A
Innovative Sonic Technology for Ex-Situ Treatment of Mercury Contaminated Waste,68D-01-032,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2001,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarar@aol.com,Steven Mcgrath,,4067232222,,"A novel combination of technologies is proposed by Montec Research to improve ex situ mercury remediation. The combination of acoustic agitation, iodine leaching chemistry, and real-time management of leach oxidation potential will allow mercury to be extracted economically from soils, sediments, and debris. Additional residue-washing steps are proposed to help residues pass the Universal Treatment Standards Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure level of 0.025 mg/L. Recovery of iodine from the leach residues also is a critical focus of the research, as near-complete recoveries are required to make many iodine-based processes economically viable. Other commercial benefits are expected to spring from successful completion of the Phase I work. Iodine leaching is applicable as a benign noncyanide leaching process for gold and can be used in the recycling of platinum group metals. The techniques employed to recover the expensive reagent may expand the attractiveness of iodine chemistry in those applications."
SBIR Phase I: Thermal Spray of Nanocomposites,0060769,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,Lawrence Farrar,,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of an advanced technology for the direct formation and deposition of nanocomposite polymer coatings and films. The technology encompasses the use of novel thermal spray techniques that are solventless and that may also be developed for use in directly forming functionally-graded nanocomposite materials and near-net-shape thermoplastic nanocomposites. The objective is to demonstrate the feasibility of using an advanced thermal spray process to directly melt-blend and form nanocomposite coatings and films. Experimental work will be conducted to spray coat nanomaterials onto a substrate, followed by an evaluation of the sprayed material properties for suitability as an advanced nanocomposite coating material. The proposed technology addresses the global interest in nanostructured polymeric materials that have significantly improved performance properties over conventional polymeric materials.
This technology has direct application in the powder coating industry, where thermoset and thermoplastic materials are sprayed for a broad range of applications, which include coatings on automobiles, appliance coatings, architectural coatings to a broad range of general metal finishing uses"
SiC-Based Laser Fusion Optics,DE-FG03-01ER83283,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2001,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4067232222,lefarrar@aol.com,Hendrik van Walsem,Senior Biochemical Engineer,4067232222,hjvanwalsem@aol.com,"65538 Ethanol is an environmentally friendly oxygen additive for fuel. However, during the fermentation process, the build up of ethanol negatively impacts the fermentation microorganism, thereby decreasing productivity and increasing energy consumption. Research has shown that ethanol could be continuously removed from the fermentation media with non-porous pervaporation membranes, but viscosity and fouling effects make this solution impractical. This project will use a high-flux, low-selectivity pervaporation membrane to remove ethanol from a continuously operated fermentor. The membrane will be activated with low frequency acoustic energy to eliminate mass transfer resistance and intensify the process. Phase I will demonstrate that the technology will facilitate the removal of ethanol from an active fermentation broth. The ability to maintain a high flux rate for ethanol and water without damaging yeast cells will be evaluated, and the economic feasibility will benchmarked against industry standards. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This technology should enable existing fermentors to fully implement modern separation methods. Lower ethanol production costs and increased productivity should result."
Sonic Technology for Enhanced Agricultural By-Products,2001-33610-11081,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,Steve F. McGrath,,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,A novel low frequency (
Sonic Technology for Enhanced Agricultural By-Products,2001-33610-11081,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,2,275000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,Steve F. McGrath,,4067232222,mcgrathsf@aol.com,A novel low frequency (
N/A,0111712,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,Karl Gustavson,,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,N/A
N/A,0111712,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,2,500000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence Farrar,President,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,Karl Gustavson,,4067232222,lcfarrar@aol.com,N/A
Magnetohydrodynamic Power Generation in Space from a Repetively Detonated Device,DASG60-01-C-0089,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2001,2,749954.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis Moore,"Manager, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Jean-Luc Cambier,Staff Aerospace Engineer,4063880542,cambier@mse-ta.com,"It is proposed to continue development of a novel concept for space power generation based on coupling of a Pulse Detonation Rocket Engine (PDRE) with a magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) generator. This highly efficient chemical power generation approach allowsfor deployment of clusters of satellites, thus increasing the survivability and operability of the defense system. The proposed PDRE-MHD can also be used for efficient space propulsion, allowing the satellite to perform orbital change maneuvers. Theconcept is low-cost, extremely robust, and (through a multiple-tube design) highly tolerant to component failure. The Phase I studies demonstrated its viability and indicated the generator performance can be significantly higher than that of aconventional rocket-MHD system when accounting for all system operations. The unique operating characteristics of the PDRE may also provide ways for even greater performance increase. This Phase II effort proposed to experimentally demonstrate thetechnology and optimize and individual PDRE-MHD device. A system engineering study will lead to final design of the complete orbital platform. Besides low-cost, efficient space power generation, other applications include advanced space propulsionconcepts, which have a significant commercial potential. The proposed research and development will be leveraged with a complementary National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)-funded project. The PDRE-MHD concept is a revolutionary approach tochemical-MHD power generation. The technology provides the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO) with a low-cost, dual-use, highly efficient and flexible design for an orbital power-generating platform. The technology also has applications inadvanced space propulsion technology of interest to NASA, as well as large commercial development potential."
Novel Neutron Detector for High Rate Imaging Applications,DE-FG03-01ER83284,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2001,1,99454.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis Moore,Administrative Directing Manager,4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Clarence G. Whitworth,Senior Scientist/Chemist,4064947296,ewjr@mse-ta.com,"65608 To treat hazardous wastes and low-level mixed wastes, the Department of Energy (DOE) is using or evaluating several thermal and non-thermal technologies. However, these technologies have the potential to generate highly toxic gaseous emissions of polychlorinated dioxins/furans, which, under recently promulgated regulations, must be limited to very low levels. The current regulatory method for the offgas sampling and analysis of these compounds requires a relatively bulky sampling train consisting of a stack probe, transfer lines, a filter to catch particulates, and an organic resin trap to capture vapor phase dioxins. The materials from the sampling train are then sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis. This project will develop a faster, more streamlined method to monitor and control dioxin/furan emissions by combining supercritical fluid extraction with solid phase microextraction. Such a combination can efficiently extract dioxins/furans in a sample matrix, remove interferences (through appropriate choice of supercritical fluid extraction conditions and up-take solvent), and concentrate the analyte without an evaporative concentration step. Phase I will develop and demonstrate the supercritical fluid extraction/solid phase microextraction procedure that will extract dioxin/furan from the offgas particulate and present the extracted dioxins/furan to an analyzer/detector in a relatively purified and concentrated form. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: A field-deployable dioxin monitor would permit more frequent regulatory monitoring of combustion sources for highly toxic dioxins/furans. Dioxin/furan monitors should find use in steel plants, cement kilns, and thermal and non-thermal treatment of hazardous and mixed waste."
Metals Recycling from Waste Sludges by Ammoniacal Leaching Followed by Solvent Extraction,68-D-01-033,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2001,1,70000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis Moore,,4064947100,,Brian Park,,4064947100,bpark@mse-ta.com,"The Phase I objective is to demonstrate the feasibility of applying recently developed enhanced ammoniacal leaching techniques and solvent extraction reagents to recycle nickel, copper, cobalt, zinc, and cadmium from hydroxide sludges such as those produced by electroplating shops, metal finishers, treatment of acid mine drainage, and industrial wastewater in general. Electroplating sludges, classified as F006 hazardous waste, are expensive to dispose. Recycling of the metal values in these sludges represents a potential method of offsetting disposal costs and an opportunity to recycle a nonrenewable resource. These materials currently are recycled to some degree, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is taking measures to encourage further recycling. Current recycling techniques involve shipping to a copper or nickel smelter, or to other recyclers employing hydrometallurgical techniques that typically involve nonselective acid or alkaline leaching steps. In addition, numerous mining companies are obligated to undertake long-term treatment of acid mine drainage to minimize impacts to receiving streams. These sludges typically are lower grade than electroplating sludges and produced at much higher annual volumes. Virtually no recycling of these mine waste-derived sludges currently occurs, and large volumes of sludges now are placed in lagoons or repositories. Ammoniacal leaching of hydroxide sludges was evaluated more than 15 - 20 years ago, and although it was found to be highly selective for specific metals, recoveries were disappointing. MSE Technology Applications, Inc., will reevaluate ammoniacal leaching of hydroxide sludges using recently developed techniques to significantly increase leaching efficiency. The leaching component is followed by solvent extraction to separate the leached metals, using solvent extraction reagents developed in the last 5 - 10 years, particularly for selective nickel and copper extraction from ammoniacal solutions. Project objectives are to determine optimum leaching conditions for the target metals, determine suitable solvent extraction reagents and conditions, estimate ammonia recycle efficiencies, prepare a system conceptual design, and perform economic analyses of the proposed process compared with current alternatives. The anticipated results are that the process will efficiently leach, separate, and recover metals from hydroxide sludges, and the economic analyses ultimately will determine the attractiveness or unattractiveness of the process. If the economics appear to be promising, the process would represent a less expensive alternative to F006 generators than current choices, as well as an opportunity for mining companies faced with long-term treatment of acid mine drainage to recover at least a portion of their treatment costs. The process will be developed further in a Phase II effort including development and operation of a pilot plant and obtaining buy-in from a commercial entity."
Biofilm Barrier for In Situ Groundwater Denitrification,2001-33610-10346,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,1,69799.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis J. Moore,"Manager, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Garth James,,4065867869,gjames@mse-ta.com,"Nitrate contamination of groundwater is widespread problem in the United States and throughout the world. The use of agricultural fertilizers and improper disposal of industrial wastes has led to nitrate levels that exceed the National Primary Drinking Water Standard of 10 mg/l. Nitrate contamination in drinking water has been implicated as the cause of various health problems in humans, including methemoglobinemia and spontaneous abortions. MSE, in collaboration with the Center for Biofilm Engineering at Montana State University, has developed a biological process that combines containment of polluted groundwater with remediation of that water. This technology uses a subsurface biofilm barrier to destroy nitrate in situ while keeping the contaminated plume from reaching fresh water sources. MSE plans to test this technology at our Butte, Montana, field site using an existing 180 ft. by 130 ft. by 20 ft. deep test cell. Nitrate will be injected into the test cell and monitored as it passes through the reactive zone. It is expected that this technology will be an expensive alternative to conventional nitrate treatment technologies."
Mach 6+ Turbine Engine with Inlet Air Conditioning,DAAH0102CR072,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2001,1,98992.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis Moore,"VP, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Vladimir Balepin,Staff Aerospace Engineer,4064947177,blpn@mse-ta.com,"In support of the DARPA efforts focused on delivering higher thrust-to-weight ratios, reduced cost turbine engine technology as well as developing innovative and high Mach airbreathing engines, MSE Technology Applications, Inc., with the Air Force ResearchLaboratory, proposes to design, develop, and test a new high Mach engine concept, the SteamJet(TM), which is based on existing turbojets. This will provide the DoD with a low cost, low risk propulsion system possessing unique control andacceleration/deceleration features for small hydrocarbon-fueled flight vehicles such as missiles, interceptors, and launcher accelerators. SteamJet(TM) employs a simple, low cost modification to a conventional turbojet engine to reduce the high incomingair stagnation temperature at high Mach numbers and compensate for compressor performance deterioration. The main innovative feature is that SteamJet(TM)is the only airbreathing cycle that permits vehicle acceleration with a single type of engine (asdistinct from, for example, the turboramjet) from sea-level static conditions up to Mach 6+. The SteamJet(TM) is a high thrust engine with very flexible thrust control, and it is fueled by commonly available fuels. SteamJet(TM) technology isenvironmentally clean and it is equally applicable to both military and commercial launchers as well as other high speed vehicles. Additionally, it will help to reach or exceed several IHPTET Phase III goals by the year 2003. The SteamJet(TM) concept hasunique competitive advantages of higher performance than solid or liquid rockets, provides thrust from sea-level static conditions to Mach 6+, and has a higher thrust-to-weight ratio than a comparable ramjet. Being completely within industrial capability,this low cost modification of existing turbojets offers a variety of thrusters for DARPA, USAF (Pegasus-type launcher, air-launch missiles), U.S. Navy, and Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO) missile systems (e.g., for such applications asPatriot-type Defense Systems, Navy Area Defense, and the Theater High-Altitude Area Defense System), and experimental vehicles like NASA X43B."
THE USE OF BIOFILMS TO COUNTER BIOTERRORISM,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,99628.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,4064947332,DMOORE@MSE-TA.COM,Garth A. James,,,,"DESCRIPTION (Verbatim from Applicant's Abstract): The possibility that
terrorists will contaminate public drinking water supplies with biological
agents, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins, becomes greater every day. Recent
cases of intentional food contamination with bacteria emphasize our
vulnerability to these attacks. An innovative approach to counteracting this
threat is to use bacterial biofilms for trapping and rendering these pathogenic
biological agents ineffective. The goal of this, and subsequent research, is to
build a system that uses natural biofilms to remove pathogens from contaminated
drinking water. During Phase I, we will quantify the extent of pathogen
attachment to biofilms. Specifically, we will use a test apparatus capable of
measuring the amount of bioterrorism agents that can be captured by bacterial
biofilms. The data generated from this research will be used to create a
preliminary design of a treatment system. There is a definite need for a system
such as this to prevent contamination of public or military drinking water
systems. The expertise of the assembled team at MSE, and our partner, the
Center for Bioflim Engineering, is unsurpassed in the field of biofilm
attachment phenomenon, especially as it relates to drinking water issues.
Together we can effectively develop this technology and move it towards
commercialization.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
There is a definite need for systems that have the ability to effectively remove pathogenic
substances from contaminated drinking water. A biofilm system will have many advantages
over conventional systems because of its ability to trap and render ineffective a wide
variety of pathogenic substances. Commercial applications for this system include the
U.S. Military, hospitals, and water utilities."
Magnetohydrodynamic Energy Bypass Application for Single-Stage-to-Orbit Vehicles,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Michael R. Tuck,President,4064947100,mtuck@mse-ta.com,Ying-Ming Lee,Staff Aerospace Engineer,,yingming@mse-ta.com,"The global political structure has changed dramatically since the breakup of the former Soviet Union. World changes have caused the U.S. to reprioritize its National hypersonic needs. The United States government has looked to the needs of the future, and the hypersonic aeorospace plane is one of the systems included in alternative force structures. One of the hypersonic aerospace plane concepts would involve magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) technology, or the AJAX hypersonic flight vehicle concept, originally proposed by Russian scientist Vladimir Fraishtadt. The objective of this proposal is to study an air-breathing horizontal take-off and landing design concept using an MHD energy bypass injector ramjet engine. MSE and Hypertech Concepts will be using MSE developed Electromagnetic code (MSEID Code) with new Scramjet model and other tools to examine the total system performance. Both cruiser and space launch propulsion configurations will be investigated. The MSE and Hypertech Concepts team will make sure this propulsion and operational concept for the hypersonic aerospace plane is based on operations consistent with existing NASA goals. The overall operational concept will also be examined to determine the overall cost effectiveness."
Magnetohydrodynamic Energy Bypass Application for Single-Stage-to-Orbit Vehicles,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,2,590000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Michael R. Tuck,President,4064947100,mtuck@mse-ta.com,Ying-Ming Lee,Staff Aerospace Engineer,,yingming@mse-ta.com,"The global political structure has changed dramatically since the breakup of the former Soviet Union. World changes have caused the U.S. to reprioritize its National hypersonic needs. The United States government has looked to the needs of the future, and the hypersonic aeorospace plane is one of the systems included in alternative force structures. One of the hypersonic aerospace plane concepts would involve magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) technology, or the AJAX hypersonic flight vehicle concept, originally proposed by Russian scientist Vladimir Fraishtadt. The objective of this proposal is to study an air-breathing horizontal take-off and landing design concept using an MHD energy bypass injector ramjet engine. MSE and Hypertech Concepts will be using MSE developed Electromagnetic code (MSEID Code) with new Scramjet model and other tools to examine the total system performance. Both cruiser and space launch propulsion configurations will be investigated. The MSE and Hypertech Concepts team will make sure this propulsion and operational concept for the hypersonic aerospace plane is based on operations consistent with existing NASA goals. The overall operational concept will also be examined to determine the overall cost effectiveness."
Biofilm Capture of Chemical Warfare Agents,DAAH0102CR045,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2001,1,98948.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis Moore,"VP, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Garth James,Senior Microbiologist,4065867869,gjames@mse-ta.com,"The potential use of biological and chemical warfare agents presents a threat to both military and civilian communities. Improved methods of capturing and detecting these agents are needed to increase public safety and protect military personnel.Biofilms may be one answer to this problem. Biofilms consist of microorganisms growing on a surface and enmeshed in a polymer matrix. Observations of many biofilms in a variety of environments suggest that they have a natural ability to bind a wide rangeof organic and inorganic substances from their surroundings. This property of biofilms may be exploited to improve the detection of chemical and biological warfare agents. The ability of biofilms to concentrate trace quantities of hazardous substanceswill result in improved detection techniques. The research proposed herein will evaluate the ability of biofilms to capture and concentrate potential chemical warfare agents. Recently there has been significant research into detection of biological and chemical warfare agents. However, much less effort has been put towards collection and concentration of these agents. This is the primary benefit of biofilm technology - aninexpensive collection system that uses a natural biofilm to collect a toxin or pathogen in quantities that can be readily measured. Rather that taking samples periodically, the biofilm capture system could be"
N/A,,NSF,NSF,STTR,2001,1,100000.00,"PFM Manufacturing, Inc.",108 North Spruce Street,,Townsend,MT,59644,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,0109983,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"Purity Systems, Inc.",3116 Old Pond Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,George Torp,President,4065434228,gtorp@bigsky.net,Lawrence Farrar,,4062436246,bfischer@selway.umt.edu,N/A
N/A,0109983,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2001,2,500000.00,"Purity Systems, Inc.",3116 Old Pond Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,George Torp,President,4065434228,gtorp@bigsky.net,Lawrence Farrar,,4062436246,bfischer@selway.umt.edu,N/A
Visual Knowledge Capture for the Development of Expert Systems,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,Lawrence Hall,President,4068836241,lrhall@digisys.net,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,,amolin@skenet.com,"S&K Electronics is proposing a visual programming environment for developing expert systems in CLIPS. This project will be known as the Visual Expert System Programming Resource, or VESPR. The visual environment will provide a graphical interface for easily capturing knowledge and converting it into the appropriate language constructs; it will also provide visualization of the system being developed. VESPR will also automatically provide ┬┐scaffolding┬┐ to simplify the development of features common to expert systems. By using an existing expert system development language, the project will be able to leverage the work already done on the language and have an existing pool of potential users available. The most important asset that NASA owns is flight knowledge. How to fly space vehicles. This knowledge is unique to NASA, and most of it is confined to a few experienced flight controllers and mission specialists. Expert systems can represent that knowledge in a permanent, flexible, and useful fashion. The knowledge can be saved and used easily. Unfortunately, creation of an expert system is an expensive, time-consuming task, requiring, at a minimum, both an expert who possesses the knowledge that needs to be captured, and an expert programmer."
Visual Knowledge Capture for the Development of Expert Systems,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,2,599485.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,Lawrence Hall,President,4068836241,lrhall@digisys.net,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,,amolin@skenet.com,"S&K Electronics is proposing a visual programming environment for developing expert systems in CLIPS. This project will be known as the Visual Expert System Programming Resource, or VESPR. The visual environment will provide a graphical interface for easily capturing knowledge and converting it into the appropriate language constructs; it will also provide visualization of the system being developed. VESPR will also automatically provide ┬┐scaffolding┬┐ to simplify the development of features common to expert systems. By using an existing expert system development language, the project will be able to leverage the work already done on the language and have an existing pool of potential users available. The most important asset that NASA owns is flight knowledge. How to fly space vehicles. This knowledge is unique to NASA, and most of it is confined to a few experienced flight controllers and mission specialists. Expert systems can represent that knowledge in a permanent, flexible, and useful fashion. The knowledge can be saved and used easily. Unfortunately, creation of an expert system is an expensive, time-consuming task, requiring, at a minimum, both an expert who possesses the knowledge that needs to be captured, and an expert programmer."
Laser Materials for Remote Sensing of Ozone,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,1,70000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,Presidet,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Randy W. Equall,Research Scientist,4065853772,rwesm@montana.com,"Space based lidar systems for the remote sensing of Ozone require high-power, high-efficiency lasers operating in the ultraviolet. Diode-pumped solid-state lasers are the primary candidates for this application. Operation in the ultraviolet is typically achieved through two or three frequency conversion steps using nonlinear optical materials. This reduces the efficiency of the laser systems placing very stringent demands on the laser design and the gain media. A promising material for use in lasers for the remote sensing of Ozone is Nd:Y2O3 operating at 914 nm and 948 nm using the 4F3/2 to 4I9/2 transition of the Nd3+ ion. This material offers several advantages over other crystals, including a lower threshold for oscillation of this transition, a high thermal conductivity, and a broad transmission range from 0.23 microns to 8 microns. Recent studies indicate that this material is well suited to Ozone lidar applications provided that crystals of sufficient size and quality are available. This Phase I SBIR project is aimed at developing growth systems to produce high optical quality Y2O3 and at demonstrating proof of concept for scaling of such systems to produce laser rods of sufficient size for use in lasers systems capable of meeting NASA's requirements for Ozone sensing."
Lithium Borogermanate; A New NLO Crystal for Frequency Conversion,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@avicom.net,Randy W. Equall,Research Scientist,,rwe_sm@avicom.net,"Nonlinear optical (NLO) materials play a critical role in current solid-state laser systems enabling broad tunability and operation at wavelengths not accessible by available laser gain media. At the same time, NLO materials limit the longevity and efficiency of these laser systems due to low damage thresholds, poor optical quality and small nonlinearities. As a result, new NLO materials are required to improve the performance of existing systems and to provide new combinations of optical and mechanical properties that yield new wavelengths. Specifically, there is a need for new/better NLO materials for use in high efficiency all solid-state lasers operating in the UV. Borate crystals, including BBO and LBO, are currently two of the industry standards for this application. A new material, lithium borogermanate (LBG), has the potential to replace these materials with increased transmission in the UV combined with larger nonlinearities. Based on preliminary characterization results, crystalline structure, and composition, LBG has the potential to enable new devices that require operation deeper in the UV. This Phase I SBIR project is aimed at developing hydrothermal growth systems for this new NLO material. This project will use unique, resealable, hydrothermal growth equipment capable of precise control and in-situ monitoring of growth conditions."
Lithium Borogermanate; A New NLO Crystal for Frequency Conversion,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,2,600000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@avicom.net,Randy W. Equall,Research Scientist,,rwe_sm@avicom.net,"Nonlinear optical (NLO) materials play a critical role in current solid-state laser systems enabling broad tunability and operation at wavelengths not accessible by available laser gain media. At the same time, NLO materials limit the longevity and efficiency of these laser systems due to low damage thresholds, poor optical quality and small nonlinearities. As a result, new NLO materials are required to improve the performance of existing systems and to provide new combinations of optical and mechanical properties that yield new wavelengths. Specifically, there is a need for new/better NLO materials for use in high efficiency all solid-state lasers operating in the UV. Borate crystals, including BBO and LBO, are currently two of the industry standards for this application. A new material, lithium borogermanate (LBG), has the potential to replace these materials with increased transmission in the UV combined with larger nonlinearities. Based on preliminary characterization results, crystalline structure, and composition, LBG has the potential to enable new devices that require operation deeper in the UV. This Phase I SBIR project is aimed at developing hydrothermal growth systems for this new NLO material. This project will use unique, resealable, hydrothermal growth equipment capable of precise control and in-situ monitoring of growth conditions."
Huntite Crystals for UV Nonlinear Optics and Self-Doubled Lasers,F33615-01-M-5422,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2001,1,65000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@montana.com,Gregory Peterson,Research Scientist,4065853772,rwesm@montana.com,"Nonlinear optical (NLO) materials play a critical role in current solid-state laser systems enabling broad tunability and operation at wavelengths not accessible by available laser gain media. At the same time, NLO materials limit the longevity andefficiency of these laser systems due to low damage thresholds, poor optical quality and small nonlinearities. As a result, new NLO materials are required to improve the performance of existing systems and to provide new combinations of optical andmechanical properties that yield new wavelengths. Specifically, there is a need for new/better NLO materials for use in high efficiency all solid-state lasers operating in the UV. Borate crystals, including BBO and LBO, are currently two of the industrystandards for this application. A new family of Sc-containing huntite borate materials, has the potential to replace these materials with increased transmission in the UV combined with larger nonlinearities. Based on preliminary characterization results,crystalline structure, and composition, congruent melting huntite crystals have the potential to enable new devices that require operation deeper in the UV. This Phase I SBIR project is aimed at developing two new congruent melting huntite NLO materials,and a new Nd-doped self-frequency doubling material capable of being diode pumped.The successful development of new congruent melting NLO huntite borate materials would have immediate widespread commercial application. Huntite crystals would competedirectly with both BBO and LBO primarily for frequency conversion into the UV, and rare-earth and transition metal doped huntites would provide new sources of compact solid-state diode pumped self-frequency doubled lasers."
N/A,50-DKNA-1-90048,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2001,1,75000.00,"Sunburst Sensors, LLC",1226 West Broadway,,Missoula,MT,59802-3915,No,No,Yes,,,,,David E. Irwin,PARTNER,4065499267,sunburst@montana.com,N/A
"Bioengineered Proteins for Chemical/Biological Defense, Protection, and Decontamination",DAAD19-02-C-0016,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2001,1,99938.00,Transwesttech,10720 Gee Norman Road,,Belgrade,MT,59714,No,No,No,Gordon Julian,Vice President,4065879636,gjulian@aol.com,Kenneth DeBoer,PI,4063884566,deboer5@peoplepc.com,"This proposal encompasses a facile method for generating transgenic chickens. Traditionally, the approach to accomplish this has been to target the avian egg or embryo for gene insertion using either viral or 'standard' plasmids as vectors. In contrast,our proposed method introduces two new features, i.e. (1) novel transposon DNA vectors and (2) injection of DNA into the testes of immature males. As a result, the injected genes will integrate into the genome of some proportion of spermatogonia and thistransforms a significant percentage of the eventual mature spermatozoa for transmission by normal breeding to the next generation. This procedure is expected to produce much higher efficiencies n the production of true germline transgenic offspring.Enhancement of integration of the injected trangene construct is accomplished by transposon vectors, which forces integration into the genome of forming spermatogenic cells, as demonstrated in fish by the Co-Investigator. Thus, this STTR proposed researchis an extension of previous work, which is now applied to avians. This simple and efficient methodology should facilitate generating transgenic poultry which secrete large amounts of recombinant proteins into their egg whites, thus providing a method oflarge scale, low cost protein manufacturing.At the end of Phase I we anticipate having 1- 10 true germline transgenic chicks which, after breeding, should demonstrate not only a new method for transgenesis but also provide the groundwork for a newindustrial niche using birds as large scale bioreactors to produce the myriad of recombinant proteins needed in the near future. TransWestTech, Inc. plans to be one of the pioneers in commercializing this technology to allow the production of largequantities of low cost proteins by contract, Once this approach has been confirmed, it should be possible to generate millions of transgenic hens within 18 months, each of which could secrete up to a gram of protein into each egg, at a cost of about $.05each. A small number of contract poultry producers could therefore produce multi-kilogram amounts of protein- pharmaceuticals annually for an estimated finished price of less than $1/gram"
An Assisted Change Detection System,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,1,70000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David W. Opitz,President,4022512690,opitz@mssl.uswest.net,Stuart Blundell,Vice President,4064430766,sblundell@intgeo.com,"NASA has a critical need for intelligent change detection algorithms andgeoprocessing techniques for digital imagery archives of earth sciencedata obtained from satellites and aerial platforms. Currently, the changedetection process is slow, labor-intensive, and costly. Change detectionmethods that rely on pixel differencing detect all changes between imageryand are thus not well suited for detecting target-specific changes, suchas riparian zones within a selected watershed. Thus, targets must firstbe extracted from both sets of imagery before target changes can bedetected. Visual Learning Systems (VLS) proposes to design and demonstratethe feasibility of an intelligent target-specific change-detection modulebased on VLS's novel, proprietary machine-learning methods. VLS's approach is expected to provide a mechanism for detecting object-specificchanges that is 50-200 times faster than existing techniques whilemaintaining the same level of accuracy."
A Novel Machine Learning System for Autonomous Classification of High-Resolution,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,2,600000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,President/CEO,4064430766,opitz@cs.umt.edu,Stuart Blundell,Vice-President,,intgeo@MT.net,"NASA has a critical need to automate the identification and classification of features in Earth Science imagery, particularly new high-resolution imagery. In addition, commercial applications of Earth Science data as well as the viability of the remote sensing industry depend on the development of new tools for accelerated classification of remotely sensed images. Previous research by others to automate analysis of remote sensing data through development of feature extraction software has met with limited success. The proposed research involves a new automated feature extraction approach that uses innovative machine-learning algorithms and techniques, including neural network ensembles and foveal vision. Visual Learning Systems (VLS) proposes to demonstrate the technical feasibility of this approach for rapid extraction of features from a wide variety of high-resolution digital images. This Phase I research is expected to result in technology advances that will successfully demonstrate the feasibility of VLS's innovative machine-learning system for automated feature classification from diverse high-resolution multispectral, hyperspectral, and radar image data sets from leading satellite and airborne sensors. These results will establish a solid foundation for further research during Phase II that will lead to a fully operational automated feature classification system ready for subsequent commercial development."
A Novel Machine Learning System for Autonomous Classification of High-Resolution,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,President/CEO,4064430766,opitz@cs.umt.edu,Stuart Blundell,Vice-President,,intgeo@MT.net,"NASA has a critical need to automate the identification and classification of features in Earth Science imagery, particularly new high-resolution imagery. In addition, commercial applications of Earth Science data as well as the viability of the remote sensing industry depend on the development of new tools for accelerated classification of remotely sensed images. Previous research by others to automate analysis of remote sensing data through development of feature extraction software has met with limited success. The proposed research involves a new automated feature extraction approach that uses innovative machine-learning algorithms and techniques, including neural network ensembles and foveal vision. Visual Learning Systems (VLS) proposes to demonstrate the technical feasibility of this approach for rapid extraction of features from a wide variety of high-resolution digital images. This Phase I research is expected to result in technology advances that will successfully demonstrate the feasibility of VLS's innovative machine-learning system for automated feature classification from diverse high-resolution multispectral, hyperspectral, and radar image data sets from leading satellite and airborne sensors. These results will establish a solid foundation for further research during Phase II that will lead to a fully operational automated feature classification system ready for subsequent commercial development."
Corrosion Prediction: Assessing the Effect of Corrosion Protection System Aging,F33615-01-M-5609,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2001,1,100000.00,"S&K Technologies, Inc.","56 Old Highway 93 North, Box 339",,St. Ignatius,MT,59865-0339,No,Yes,No,John Wensits,Program Manager,9372291265,john.wensits@notes.udayton.edu,Jill Ullett,Senior Scientist,9372294717,jill.ullett@notes.udayton.edu,"Aircraft coatings are complex systems consisting of metal/conversioncoat-primer interface, primer coat, and topcoat. Degradation is caused by synergistic mechanical and chemical/environmental effects. This phase I proposal focuses on modeling the chemicaldegradation of the coating system due to UV and water exposure only. Multi-spectral analysis and electrochemical impedance techniques will be used to follow chemical changes in the system with exposure level and time. An experimental plan has been devisedwhereby the degradation of each component of the coating system can be determined. Based on the experimental findings,S&K Technologies existing corrosion prediction life service model will be enhanced to include degradation of the coating system as afunction of time and basing.A test methodology for evaluation of coating systems for aluminum and a coating life prediction tool will result from this Phase I effort."
N/A,F29601-00-C-0077,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,1,99955.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,CFO,4065220388,,Gregg Switzer,Laser Physicist,4065220388,,N/A
N/A,0078887,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Chief Financial Officer,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Rand Swanson,,4065220388,,N/A
N/A,0078887,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,2,399387.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Philip Battle,Chief Financial Officer,4065220388,battle@advr-inc.com,Rand Swanson,,4065220388,,N/A
N/A,9961280,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,99390.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,Rand Swanson,Secretary/COO,4065220388,swanson@advr-inc.com,Philip Battle,,4065220388,,N/A
N/A,9961206,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,100000.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,Richard F. Hammen,President,4067285897,chelatec@aol.com,Richard Hammen,,4067285897,,N/A
N/A,,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2000,1,75000.00,"Dokken Software, Incorporated",100 North 27th Street,Suite 250,Billings,MT,59101,No,No,No,,,,,Jason Dokken,President,4062568300,,N/A
N/A,00-33610-8880,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2000,1,70000.00,"Environmental and Petroleum Consulting, LLC","524 Professional Dr., Ste. D",,Bozeman,MT,59718,No,No,No,Robert F. Mueller,Research Manager,4065866007,,Robert F. Mueller,,4065866071,rmueller@in-tch.com,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,,,4065852733,MMCCUE@IMT.NET,Jon O. Nagy,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,2,1294354.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,,,4065852733,MMCCUE@IMT.NET,Jon O. Nagy,,,,N/A
N/A,NAS1 00069,NASA,NASA,STTR,2000,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,298753.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,ROGERSMC@PARAMOUNTCAPITAL.COM,Fred H. Mermelstein,,,,N/A
N/A,DAAH01-00-C-R086,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2000,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Steven F. McGrath,,4064945555,,N/A
N/A,0078350,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064945555,lcfarrar@aol.com,Lawrence Farrar,,4064945555,,N/A
N/A,0078350,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,2,400000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064945555,lcfarrar@aol.com,Lawrence Farrar,,4064945555,,N/A
N/A,DE-FG03-99ER82836,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064945555,lcfarrar@aol.com,Steven F. McGrath,Chief Metallurgist,4064945555,mcgrathsf@aol.com,N/A
N/A,DE-FG03-99ER82836,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2000,2,750000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,President,4064945555,lcfarrar@aol.com,Steven F. McGrath,Chief Metallurgist,4064945555,mcgrathsf@aol.com,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,157142.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Lawrence Farrar,,,,N/A
N/A,9960065,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Lawrence C. Farrar,Principal,4064945555,lcfarrar@aol.com,Lawrence Farrar,,4064945555,,N/A
A New Rocket-based Combined Cycle for Reusable Launch Vehicles,F04611-00-C-0046,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,2,547848.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,Vladimir Balepin,,4064947177,,N/A
Machine Vision Confirmation of Launch Bar Engagement,N68335-00-C-0420,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,2,750000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,James E. McConnell,,4064947393,,N/A
N/A,DASG60-00-M-0071,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2000,1,65000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Dennis J. Moore,"Manager, Administration",4064947332,dmoore@mse-ta.com,Jean-Luc Cambier,Staff Aerospace Engineer,4064947332,cambier@mse-ta.com,N/A
N/A,NAS1 00041,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,70000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Michael R. Tuck,President,4064947100,mtuck@mse-ta.com,Ying-Ming Lee,Staff Aerospace Engineer,,yingming@mse-ta.com,N/A
N/A,00-33610-8917,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2000,1,70000.00,Mycotech Corporation,P. O. Box 4109,,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,Gary T. Chartiand,"Vice President, Manufacturing",4067822386,gchatriand@mycotech.com,Richard A. DeMaio,,4067822386,rdm@mycotech.com,N/A
N/A,68D00260,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2000,1,69368.00,"Purity Systems, Inc.",3116 Old Pond Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,4065434228,,Robert J. Fischer,,,,Not Available This research will result in an expert system that can be used by KSC engineers to facilitate insight responsibilities associated with current and future NASA-KSC projects. System performance data will be analyzed and interpreted using appropriate statist
N/A,9961006,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,82048.00,"Purity Systems, Inc.",3116 Old Pond Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,George Torp,President,4065434228,gtorp@bigsky.net,Robert Fischer,,4065434228,,N/A
N/A,NAS9 00037,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,69796.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,Lawrence Hall,President,4068836241,lrhall@digisys.net,Arthur Molin,Principal Investigator,,amolin@skenet.com,N/A
N/A,NAS9 00031,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,69935.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,Lawrence Hall,President,4068836241,lrhall@digisys.net,Carroll Thronesbery,Principal Investigator,,carroll.g.thronesbery1@jsc.nasa.gov,N/A
N/A,NAS9 00039,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,69804.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,Lawrence Hall,President,4068836241,lrhall@digisys.net,Larry C. Li,Principal Investigator,,larryli@ghg.net,N/A
N/A,NAS1 00050,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,69365.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,Ralph L. Hutcheson,President,4065853772,scimat@avicom.net,Randy W. Equall,Research Scientist,,rwe_sm@avicom.net,N/A
N/A,NAS13 00014,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,70000.00,"Visual Learning Systems, Inc.",1719 Dearborn Avenue,,Missoula,MT,59801-2391,No,No,No,David Opitz,President/CEO,4064430766,opitz@cs.umt.edu,Stuart Blundell,Vice-President,,intgeo@MT.net,N/A
N/A,,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1999,2,846611.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Dr N Melikechi,,3027393983,,N/A
A Continuous Wave Raman Laser to Access a Broad Spectral Regime,99-160,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1999,1,75112.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Rand Swanson,,4065220388,,N/A
Enhanced Phase Sensitive Spectroscopy Using Matched Gratings,9861504,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1999,1,97724.00,"ADVR, Inc.",MT,Building #1-1,Bozeman,MT,59715-6504,No,No,No,,,,,Rand Swanson,,,,N/A
INTEGRATED FOREST RESOURCE PLANNING UNDER CONSTRAINTS,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1999,2,140000.00,Forest Biometrics,53 Trestle Ck. Dr.,,St. Regis,MT,59866,No,No,No,,,,,Arney,Principal Investigator,,,"Not Available The objective for this Phase II are to:
1) Develop a common approach to build forest management plans for long-term planning that integrate vegetation, wildfire, hydrology, topography and environmental parameters.
2) Document this approach through hands-on sample databases that include appropriate overlays of vegetation, roads, streams, topography and land use.
3) Create a user environment that promotes understanding and confidence when working with forest inventory, forest planning and the implementation of State regulations and wildfire guidelines.
4) Explain database relationships, such as those between vegetation types and polygons; sampled and un-sampled polygons; partial overlaps of stream buffers within vegetation types; and biodiversity that occurs within watershed basins."
COMPOSITE SUPPORTS FOR DNA SYNTHESIS AND CHROMATOGRAPHY,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,1,99946.00,HAMMEN CORPORATION,4200 FOX FARM RD,,MISSOULA,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,4067285897,CHELATEC@AOOL.COM,Richard F. Hammen,,,,N/A
NEW CONJUGATE VACCINE FOR GRAM NEGATIVE SEPSIS,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,1,100000.00,"MONTANA HEADWATERS, INC.",629 BLAINE ST,,MISSOULA,MT,59801,No,No,No,,,4065435107,ENDOBIOLOGICS@QWEST.NET,Gary L. Gustafson,,,,"Not Available Technology required to creat a pulsed detonation engine (PDE) has been maturing rapidly inthe recent past. The airbreathing and rocket modes of operation of such a device can potentially b combined to result ina performance leader for long range, low cost and high mach number propulsion needs. As such, the efficiency of PDEs is augmented by the flesibility offered by the multi-mode operation. In this proposal HyPerComp, a small business and leader inthe development and application of computational technologies to aerospace engineering problems, together with the University of Texas a Arlington and Lockheed-Martin Tactical Aircraft systems in Fort Worth, proposes to validate an innovative design based on these concepts. This team has well established and internationally reowned strengths in the areas of aerodynamics, airframe integration, design and simulation of pulse detonation devices. it has a capability to conduct large scale computatios of fluid mechanics problems with finite rate chemistry includig detonation. Individual team members have extensive experience inthe area of pulse detonation both from analytical and epxerimental perspectives, have numerous publications and patents directly concerning pulsed detonationand are ideally suited to undertake research to further the frontiers in this area."
Advanced Sonic Technology for Enhanced Oxygen Delignification,99-33610-7386,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1999,1,65000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Cynthia K. Farrar,President,4064945555,,Lawrence C. Farrar,,4064945555,,N/A
N/A,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1999,2,400000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Lawrence Farrar,,,,N/A
Bottoms-Up In-Situ Vitrification of Hard-to-Treat Buried Mixed Wastes,,DOE,DOE,STTR,1999,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,Ms. Cynthia K. Farrar,,4064945555,,Mr Lawrence C Farrar,Principal,4064945555,,N/A
Polyimide Spray-Foaming Process,,NASA,NASA,STTR,1999,1,99993.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
Advanced Nanoparticle Plasma Synthesis Process,9860815,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1999,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Lawrence Farrar,,,,N/A
Acoustic Enhanced Ozone Drinking Water,,EPA,EPA,SBIR,1999,1,70000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,"Not Available Polymeric membrane optics are leading candidates for lightweight space-based optical systems. Significant advances have been made in the understanding of the mechanisms contributing to the shape distortion of the membrane. This Phase I proposal will couple the detailed analytical understanding with an innovative polymeric material and fabrication process. Test samples of the polyimized material will be fabricated to demonstrate the superior phase and amplitude distortion of the canopy material. Research in process improvement will be performed and implemented, leading to fabrication of an polyimide optic collector in Phase I. The test article will demonstrate the feasibility of the process and lay the ground work for Phase II work."
A New Rocket-based Combined Cycle for Reusable Launch Vehicles,99PRK-011,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,1,100000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,Vladimir Balepin,,4064947177,,N/A
Machine Vision Confirmation of Launch Bar Engagement,N991-2517,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1999,1,69970.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,Jim McConnell,,4064947393,,N/A
Unity Power Factor Interfacefor Data Processing Equipment,,NASA,NASA,STTR,1999,1,100000.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,2,750000.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,,,,,Larry C Li,,2814613890,,N/A
High Power Narrow Bandwidth Reflectors,99-016,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1999,1,65000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Randy Equall,,4065853772,,N/A
High Performance Extraction of Heavy Metals with Tethered Metal-Binding Ligands,,EPA,EPA,SBIR,1998,1,70000.00,"CHELATECH, INC.",4200 Fox Farm Road,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,0,,,,0,,N/A
INTEGRATED FOREST RESOURCE PLANNING UNDER CONSTRAINTS,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1998,1,49900.00,Forest Biometrics,53 Trestle Ck. Dr.,,St. Regis,MT,59866,No,No,No,,,,,Arney,Principal Investigator,,,"The objective for this Phase II are to:
1) Develop a common approach to build forest management plans for long-term planning that integrate vegetation, wildfire, hydrology, topography and environmental parameters.
2) Document this approach through hands-on sample databases that include appropriate overlays of vegetation, roads, streams, topography and land use.
3) Create a user environment that promotes understanding and confidence when working with forest inventory, forest planning and the implementation of State regulations and wildfire guidelines.
4) Explain database relationships, such as those between vegetation types and polygons; sampled and un-sampled polygons; partial overlaps of stream buffers within vegetation types; and biodiversity that occurs within watershed basins."
RATIONAL DESIGN OF ADHESION BLOCKING ANTIINFLAMMATORIES,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1998,1,100000.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,,,0,,"Nagy, Jon O",,4065852733,,N/A
FOOD TEST FOR VEROTOXIN E COLI TO PREVENT INFECTIONS,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1998,2,747372.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,,,0,,,,4065852733,,N/A
MAT BIOREACTOR TO RECOVER UNCULTURABLE ORGANISMS,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1998,1,99100.00,MONTANA BIOTECH CORPORATION,1740 EAST BASELINE RD,,Belgrade,MT,59714,No,No,No,,,0,,"Combie, Joan D",,4063880942,,N/A
Cold Electrostatic Deposition of Materials on Heat Sensitive and Other Substrates,,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1998,1,65000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,0,,David P. Haack,,4064945555,,"The proposed process will provide the capability to deposit metal coatings onto heat sensitive composite substrates. The process eliminates problems associated with thermal spray technologies, including oxidation, contamination and overheating of the coating and substrate materials. This process enables dense, adherent coatings to be applied to low temperature composite materials for wear, corrosion and temperature resistant surfaces. The innovation employs a proprietary method to propel molten metallic and other powders to a substrate where they are deposited to form protective coatings. The process significantly reduces the heat imparted to the substrate surface compared to conventional thermal spray technologies. Phase I will examine the feasibility of the process to coat temperature sensitive materials with metallic materials, and will evaluate the strength and adhesion properties of the deposited coating. A prototype system will be constructed and tested. Phase II R/R&D will examine the application of desirable coatings and their properties, and will develop systems capable of coating large structures at remote sites. Phase 111 will implement a commercialization plan to market and sell coating systems to composite and equipment manufacturers."
SBIR PHASE I: Hybrid Steam-Plasma Torch,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1998,2,300000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,0,,Lawrence Farrar,,0,,N/A
SBIR Phase I: Low-Frequency Sonochemistry -- A Cutting Edge Industrial Processing Technology,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1998,1,100000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,4064965555,,Lawrence Farrar,,4064945555,,N/A
A Pulsed Detonation Engine Ejector Concept for High Performance Propulsion,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1998,1,69959.00,"Mse Technology Applications, Inc.","200 Technology Way, P. O. Box 4078",,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,0,,,,0,,N/A
CHEMOTHERAPEUTIC AGENTS FOR MULTIDRUG RESISTANT CANCER,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1998,1,100000.00,ONCOPHARMACIA,15426 HORSE CREEK RD,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,0,,"Peterson, Dwight M",,4066864474,,N/A
Fault-Tolerant Parallel Distributed Neural Network Processing System for Adaptive Control and System Identification,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1998,1,99499.00,S&K Electronics,53347 Highway 93,,Ronan,MT,59864-0955,No,Yes,No,,,0,,Larry C. Li,,2814613890,,"S&K Electronics (SKE) proposes a fault-tolerant, parallel distributed processing (FTPDP) system capable of implementing a variety of neural network paradigms for system identification and control applications. The proposed FTPDP system offers a scalable and modular hardware architecture that interconnects small, low-cost neural processors with fault-tolerant high-speed serial buses. The neural processors will have onboard analog or digital I/Os for local data collection and control. Firmware onboard the processors will handle the dynamic resource allocation and configuration, neural network algorithm execution, including on-line learning, inter-processor communication and fault isolation. A host software package will be developed to support application development and provide flexibility ti implement various neural network paradigms. The host software will also enable users to perform on-line load balancing by reassigning neurons to different physical neural processors as well as monitoring the status of the network.The proposed FTPDP system is well suited for current and future spacecraft missions requiring accurate pointing and structural stability, e.g. the Hubble Space Telescope, the Orbiting Stellar Interferometer, and the Precision Orbiting Interferometer in Space (POINTS)."
Improved Crystals for Optical Memories,,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1998,2,507000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,0,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,,4065853772,,"A Phase I research program is proposed with two primary technical objectives that are critical to the development of real optical memory devices based on solid state materials. The first objective will be to characterize striae in optical memory materials and subsequently grow improved reduced striae crystals. Striae is currently limiting the performance of technololgies based on these materials. Researchers involved in optical memory systems have conveyed that this is one of the largest technical issues associated with the viability of these systems. The second objective is to develop a commercial source of materials for research in photon-gated holeburning. This technique has the potential for permanent storage, has nondestructive readout of the data, and is the most feasible for higher temperature operation of devices based on persistent spectral holeburning."
Compositionally Tuned Solid-State Laser Materials,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1998,2,600000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,4065853772,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,PRESIDENT,0,,N/A
SBIR Phase I: Prototype of Health Care Quality Assurance Software for an Internet Environment,9661382,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1997,1,74992.00,"Ck Software, Inc.","210 North Higgins, Suite 334",,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,,,Jerry Kogan,,0,,N/A
SBIR Phase I: ResonantSonic Advanced Oxidation Reactor,9661341,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1997,1,75000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Lawrence Farrar,,0,,N/A
Use Of Mycotrol Residue Containing B. Bassiana,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1997,1,54994.00,Mycotech Corporation,P. O. Box 4109,,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,Dr. carl g. johnston,,0,,"Mycotech produces Mycotrol, a commercial preparation of Beauveria bassiana (Bb). The residuecontains 109 spores of Bb per gram which could be economically used to reduce European corn borer(ECB) damage to corn crops. The objective is to develop an economic bio-control strategy for ECB.Three strategies for applying the Mycotrol residue to corn are proposed:┐ inoculating the seed and/or soil during planting,┐ inoculating the corn whorl, and┐ inoculating the soil after harvest to remove the overwintering corn borer larvae."
Compositionally Tuned Solid-State Laser Materials,NAS 96-1,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1997,1,70000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,4065853772,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,PRESIDENT,0,,N/A
Anaerobic Bioprocess For Liberating Gold And,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1997,1,55000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Dr. robert m. hunter,,0,,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will advance a novel anaerobic bioprocess forliberating precious metals from metal-sulfide ores. As near-surface, oxidized ore reserves are depleted,gold producers are increasingly faced with the challenge of extracting gold and other metal values fromsulfidic ores that are refractory to conventional processing techniques. This often puts mining concernsat odds with forest and agricultural interests. At present, when the demand is high for more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly ore processing options, bioprocessing as currently implementedis considered impractical for large-scale applications for three reasons: (1) slurry cooling requirementson the order of megawatts, (2) difficulties in delivering oxygen into slurries at very high rates, and (3)excessive neutralization of reagent costs and sludge production. This research will employ the tools ofthe bioprocess engineering discipline to overcome these issues. It will encourage widespread adoptionof a bioprocess that is more energy efficient and environmentally acceptable than the alternatives,roasting and autoclaving, which significantly impact air and water resources. Based on thethermodynamics and microbiology of each step in the bioprocess, kinetic and stoichiometric modelswill be developed. An experimental apparatus will be constructed and proof-of-concept experimentswill be conducted."
HIGH PERFORMANCE IMMOBILIZED METAL AFFINITY CHROMATOGRAPHY,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1996,2,10000.00,Chromatochem Inc.,2837 Ft Missoula Rd,,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,,,,,Holly A Thompson,,4067285897,,"IMMOBILIZED METAL AFFINITY CHROMATOGRAPHY (IMAC) HAS SUBTANTIAL UTILITY AS A PROTEIN PURIFICATION TOOL FOR BOTH ANALYTICAL AND PREPARATIVE APPLICATIONS. THERE IS A STRONG MARKET NEED FOR AN IMAC SUPPORT SUITABLE FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY (HPLC). RESEARCHERS ARE DEVELOPING AN HPLC SUPPORT WITH GOOD PH STABILITY, LOW NONSPECIFIC BINDING, GOOD CAPACITY, DURABILITY, AND RAPID ADSORPTION KINETICS. CAPTURE LIGANDS ARE IMMOBILIZED ON LARGE PARTICLE SILICA VIA A 50 A HYDROPHILIC TETHER. THIS RESEARCH COMBINES THE HPLC AFFINITY SUPPORT WITH WELL CHARACTERIZED AFFINITY PROBES FOR IMAC OF PROTEINS. RESEARCHERS ARE PREPARING AND CHARACTERIZING TWO NEW IMAC SUPPORTS FOR HPLC, MEASURING THE PROTEIN ADSORPTION CAPACITY FOR MODEL PROTEINS UNDER VARIOUS CONDITIONS, AND DETERMINING RESOLUTION OF CLOSELY RELATED PROTEIN ON THE COLUMNS. THESE STUDIES DEFINE THE UTILITY OF IMMOBILIZING IMAC AFFINITY PROBES ON HYDROPHILIC TETHERS FOR RAPID, HIGH RESOLUTION PROTEIN PURIFICATION."
Design of Specialized Protocol Software,"97-P-08112/8,",HHS,HHS,SBIR,1996,2,127460.00,"Ck Software, Inc.","210 North Higgins, Suite 334",,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,,,Jerry H. Kogan,,40621,,"This proposal addresses the need to develop products which will help participants in health care assquality and level of care furnished to patients. We will develop a prototype ┐Protocol Engine┐, withdesigned for personal computers and computer networks, to allow protocols to be defined and customizspecific needs of the organization; to link and/or access data from other medical software packagesmonitoring of information."
Disability data management for state and local planning.,,ED,ED,SBIR,1996,1,39948.00,Integrated Research And,415 North Higgins,,Missoula,MT,59802,No,No,No,,,,,William C. Innes,Principal Investigator,0,,"Disability is the nation's largest public health issue; with over 35 million Americans experiencing disability and annual disability-related costs exceeding $170 billion. Planning for the efficient and equitable allocations of state and local rehabilitation services has generally been inadequate, however. Geographic information systems (GIS) approaches have the potential to dramatically improve the ability of state local rehavilitation agencies to plan the allocation of resources in a new era of state control.
In Phase I we will determine the feasibility and value of applying GIS technology to assessing and planning disability services. This will include demonstrating the utility of optimization analysis in a pilot test in Montana. This effort will also produce a protocol that will permit development of software for linking various health care and other data-bases to GIS software to create mapping and planning structures. This software will provide the basis for commercial services, including the potential licensing of software to state and local agencies."
FOOD TEST FOR VEROTOXIN E COLI TO PREVENT INFECTIONS,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1996,1,76274.00,"LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.","LIGOCYTE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.",2155 Analysis Drive,BOZEMAN,MT,59718 0683,No,No,No,,,,,,,4065852733,,N/A
Liquid Melt Focused Beam Spray Process,,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1996,1,60000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,John C. Tierney,,4064945555,,"The innovation presented in this proposal involves the use of a liquid melt thermal spray process for cost effective rapid prototyping of near-net shape tooling for the lay up of advanced composite materials. The process uses a focused beam of charged liquid droplets to form tooling directly from three-dimensional computer generated drawings eliminating traditional steps associated with fabrication of a lay up mold. This process is called ""liquid melt focused beam"" (LMFB) thermal spray. The liquid droplets will be focused using novel methods to enable the liquid plume width to be controlled for fabricating a part from the ""ground"" up. The innovation is especially profound since it has potential for fabrication of both small and large scale tools. The process has commercial applications and the Boeing Defense and Space Group is interested in Phase II development of the process for large scale components. A separate area of importance to the US Air Force is that once the process has been demonstrated for fabrication of tooling, it may also be utilized for the direct fabrication of composite sandwiched materials. The innovative technology described in this proposal meets the subtopic need for tooling techniques for near-net shape production of advanced composites."
SBIR PHASE I: Hybrid Steam-Plasma Torch,9560997,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1996,1,75000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Lawrence Farrar,,0,,N/A
Solid-State Micro-ball for Optical Limiters,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1996,1,80000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,,4065853772,,"A Phase I SBIR program is proposed to develop crystalline materials for optical limiters. Crystals will be fabricated into micro-balls and suspended in an index matched glass for use in practical applications. The materials development portion of the program will involve studies of the use of photoionization, color center formation, charge trapping and transfer, and combinations of these processes for ions in crystalline materials. The general approach is to use a two step process in which the first step allows for the absorption of high intensity laser radiation and the second step provides the recovery mechanism for the material. The first step will involve the photoionization of transition metal ions to create absorbing color centers in an appropriate host lattice. The second step will be the reduction of a second dopant ion removing the color centers."
Improved Crystals for Optical Memories,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1996,1,79816.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,,4065853772,,"A Phase I research program is proposed with two primary technical objectives that are critical to the development of real optical memory devices based on solid state materials. The first objective will be to characterize striae in optical memory materials and subsequently grow improved reduced striae crystals. Striae is currently limiting the performance of technololgies based on these materials. Researchers involved in optical memory systems have conveyed that this is one of the largest technical issues associated with the viability of these systems. The second objective is to develop a commercial source of materials for research in photon-gated holeburning. This technique has the potential for permanent storage, has nondestructive readout of the data, and is the most feasible for higher temperature operation of devices based on persistent spectral holeburning."
Expert System for Recombinant DNA Invention Disclosure,"1 R43 GM50907-1,",HHS,HHS,SBIR,1996,2,746731.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Hunter,,4065863905,,"The information produced by the Human Genome Project and related research is expected torevolutionize biology and medicine in general and recombinant DNA technology in particular. At present,however, obtaining patent protection for inventions involving recombinant DNA technology is anacknowledged bottleneck in the development of the U.S. biotechnology industry. While much attentionhas been focused on the problems that occur during prosecution of patent applications, little has beenfocused on the quality of those applications. This research will assess the technical feasibility ofdeveloping a knowledge-based expert system for facilitating the authoring of recombinant DNA inventiondisclosures. The purpose of the software is to improve the quality of international and U.S. patentapplications for the purpose of reducing the duration of their pendency and associated uncertaintyregarding the scope of their claims. International and U.S. invention disclosure requirements will bereviewed to provide a basis for development of a software requirements specification. Object-orientedprogramming techniques will then be used to prepare high- and low-level software design documentation.Finally, a software prototype will be constructed and subjected to alpha testing."
Cyanide-Free Biocatalyzed Leaching of Gold and Silver Ore,9461234,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1996,2,300000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Hunter,,0,,N/A
A COST-EFFECTIVE BACTERIAL SEED TREATMENT FOR SEED ROT,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1995,2,178000.00,Bozeman Bio-tech Inc.,Po Box 3146,1612 Gold Ave,Bozeman,MT,59772,No,No,No,,,,,Dr E Wayne Vinje,,0,,"SEED ROT CAUSED BY THE FUNGUS PYTHIUM ULTIMUM IS A MAJOR CAUSE OF CROP LOSS IN NORTHERN CLIMATES WHERE COOL PLANTING SEASONS ARE COMMON. SEEDS ARE GENERALLY TREATED WITH THE FUNGICIDES METALAXYL AND CAPTAN (BANNED IN GERMANY) TO PREVENT SEED ROT. A BIOTYPE OF THE BACTERIA PSEUDOMONAS AUREOFACIENS -- AB 254 -- HAS PERFORMED AS WELL AS METALAXYL IN PREVENTING SEED ROT FOR SWEET CORN AND BEETS, AND, AT TIMES, FOR PEAS AND BEANS. IT APPEARS TH EP. AUREOFACIENS AB 254, PREHAPS IN COMBINATION WITH OTHER BACTERIAL STRAINS, CAN PROTECT A RANGE OF OTHER COMMERCIAL CROPS. P. AUREOFACIENS IS A SAPROPHYTIC SPECIES, NOT KNOWN TO BE PATHOGENIC, AND AB 254 IS INEXPENSIVE TO PRODUCE. QUESTIONS ON METHODS FOR BIO-TREATMENT OF SOME CROPS AND ON LARGE SCALE, COMMERCIAL SEED TREATMENT PROCESSES USING THESE BACTERIA REMAIN. IN THIS PROJECT MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY WILL EXTEND AB 254 AND RELATED BIO-TYPES TO EQUIVALENT CHEMICAL CONTROL PERFORMANCE FOR CROPS OTHER THAN SWEET CORN. BOZEMAN BIO-TECH WILL DEFINE, SIMULATE AND TEST COST EFFECTIVE PROCESSES FOR LARGE SCALE, COMMERCIAL SEED TREATMENT WITH AB 254 AND RELATED BACTERIA APPLICATION MECHANISMS, INCLUDING CONSIDERATION OF BIO-PRIMING AND BACTERIAL COATING WITH AND WITHOUT COMBINED POLYMER/OTHER COATING CONSTITUENTS."
Heat Stable Alkaline Phosphatase from Thermophiles,,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,1995,2,380631.00,J.k. Research,210 South Wallace,,Bozeman,MT,59715,Yes,No,No,,,,,Dr. Joan Combie,,4065868744,,"Enzymes used as the label for most non-radioactive assays and in biosensors, are the most unstable component of these systems. As immunoassays and biosensors move from the tightly controlled laboratory environment to demanding field conditions, the need for a more stable enzyme becomes critical. Alkaline phosphatase is the most widely used enzyme for these types of applications. A heat stable enzyme would not only allow use over a range of temperatures but would also increase the shelf life of these detection systems. Alkaline phosphatase is currently obtained from mammalian sources and is not stable at elevated temperatures. Thermophilic microorganisms producing heat stable alkaline phosphatase have been isolated by J. K. Research. The objective of this proposed research is to select a thermophile producing heat stable alkaline phosphatase and characterize the enzyme. Media will be developed to enhance enzyme production. A purification scheme will be optimized for maximum recovery of purified alkaline phosphatase. Sufficient heat stable enzyme will be produced to determine kinetic parameters and the most suitable reaction conditions."
Materials for Spectral Hole Burning Research,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1995,2,564864.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Ralph L Hutcheson,,4065853772,,"A program is proposed to develop a commerical source for spectral hole burning materials and their properties. The proposed program will create a file of material and their properties for this application. A crystal growth program is proposed to grow Eu:Y2Si05, Pr:YA103, and Sm:CaW04."
Homogenous Cladding for Tm:YAG Laser Rods,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1995,2,670222.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Mr. Ralph Hutcheson,,4065853772,,"Several laser designers have requested Scientific Materials Corporation (SM) to consider methods to achieve a cladding for Tm:YAG diode pumped laser rods. SM has looked at several mechanical methods and concluded mechanical systems are impractical. In the early 1960's the PI of this program developed techniques to grow overlays of sapphire on ruby. These rods were used to c-w pump ruby and they worked. This proposal extends that work to provide a homogeneous cladding for Tm:YAG laser rods. These rods should have the advantage of the earlier ruby rods; improved pump coupling, less thermal lensing, and reduced secondary modes."
Anaerobic Respirometer For Bioremediation Process Design,13.05-3905A,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1995,1,70000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,Mary M. Hunter,President,4065875109,,Robert M. Hunter,Director Of Research,0,,N/A
Cyanide-Free Biocatalyzed Leaching of Gold and Silver Ore,9461234,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1995,1,65000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Hunter,,0,,N/A
A COST-EFFECTIVE BACTERIAL SEED TREATMENT FOR SEED ROT,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1994,1,50000.00,Bozeman Bio-tech Inc.,Po Box 3146,1612 Gold Ave,Bozeman,MT,59772,No,No,No,,,,,Dr E Wayne Vinje,,0,,N/A
A TESTING PROCESS TO DEFINE ELECTRODE CURRENT WEAR MECHANISMS AND DEVELOP IMPROVED ELECTRODES,,DOE,DOE,SBIR,1994,2,599672.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Mr Lawrence C Farrar,,4064942596,,"COAL-FIRED MAGNETOHYDRODYAMIC (MHD) TECHNOLOGY HAS ADVANCED TO THE STAGE OF TESTING LARGE SCALECOMPONENTS TO DEMONSTRATE THE FEASIBILITY OF THE OVERALL PROCESS FORAPPLICATION AS A VIABLE COMMERCIAL POWER GENERATION TECHNIQUE. HOWEVER, TESTING TO EVALUATETHE FUNDAMENTAL ASPECTS OF ELECTRODE WEAR IS NOT BEING CONDUCTED. IT APPEARS THAT SOME ADDITIONAL UNDERSTANDING OF GAS-SIDE COMPONENT WEAR, SPECIFICALLY ANODE WEAR DUE TO ARC CURRENT LEVELS, IS ESSENTIAL TO ADVANCE DESIGNS OF ANODES THAT CAN WITHSTAND HIGH CURRENT ARCS. EXPERIMENTAL DATA HAVE SHOWN, AND THEORETICAL CALCULATIONS PREDICT, THAT ARE CURRENT VALUES WILL INCREASE FOR COMMERCIAL SCALE CHANNELS. HOWEVER, THERE IS NO EXPERIMENTAL FACILITY TO SYSTEMATICALLY DETERMINE THE EFFECT OF ARC CURRENT ON STATE-OF-THE-ART ANODE WEAR RATES AND DAMAGE THRESHOLDS, EVEN THOUGH THIS PROCESS IS ESSENTIAL FOR IMPROVEMENT OF MHD ELECTRODE LIFETIMES. THE PRIMARY PHASE I OBJECTIVE IS TO SHOW THAT A CAREFULLY CONTROLLED BENCH SCALE TECHNIQUE IS SUITABLE TO ESTABLISHANODE ARC CURRENT DAMAGE THRESHOLDS FOR STATE-OF-THE-ART ANODE DESIGNS AND MATERIALS. THE APPROACH WILL USE A LOW-COST, BUT TECHNICALLY-SOUND, SCREENING-TYPE EXPERIMENT TO DETERMINE DAMAGE THRESHOLDS AND ESTABLISH A FUNDAMENTAL UNDERSTANDING OF ARC CURRENT WEAR PROCESSES IN MHD CHANNEL ENVIRONMENTS. EMPHASIS WILL BE PLACED ON USING THE TESTSCHEME TO REPLICATE ANODE WEAR AND DAMAGE FEATURES OBSERVED IN MHD CHANNELS AND, VIA SYSTEMATIC METALLURGICAL ANALYSIS, DEVELOP A FUNDAMENTAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE WEAR PROCESSES. THESE PROCEDURES WILL PROVIDE CURRENT LIMITATION CRITERIA FOR ANODE MATERIALS AND DESIGNS. SECONDARY OBJECTIVES INCLUDE THE USE OF THIS PROCESS TO TEST ALTERNATIVE, STATE-OF-THE-ART MATERIALS FABRICATION PROCESSES DEVELOPED IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTACT INDUSTRY THAY MAY HAVE HIGHER THRESHOLD ARC CURRENT THAN THE EXISTING MHD CHANNEL ELECTRODE DESIGNS."
Degradation of Ordance Ingredients by Different Strains of White-Rot Fungi Including Phanerochaete Chrysosporium,,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1994,2,482780.00,Mycotech Corporation,P. O. Box 4109,,Butte,MT,59702,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Kearns,,4067822386,,"1Four different strains of white-rot fungi including P. chrysosporium, will be tested to determine their effectiveness in degrading TNT, RDX, and HMX. Bacteria has not been effective in cleaving the ring structure resulting in incomplete degradation. The ability of white-rot fungi to degrade ring structures may make it useful in degradation of these ordnance compounds. TNT, RDX, and HMX will be mixed into dirt and treated with different strains of white-rot fungi. The soil samples will be analyzed at 14, 28, and 45 days. In addition to TNT, RDX, and HMX, the soil will be analyzed for other degradation products. Two different soil types will be used for the TNT soil experiment. Water contaminated with TNT will be treated with enzymes extracted from solid cultures of white-rot fungi. Two different enzyme concentrations from each strain of fungi will be used. Samples will be analyzed 48 hours after treatment with the enzymes."
"Tunable, Solid-State Laser, Detcetors, and Lidar for Orbiting Platforms",,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1994,2,500000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,,4065853772,,N/A
Homogenous Cladding for Tm:YAG Laser Rods,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1994,1,60000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Mr. Ralph Hutcheson,,4065853772,,N/A
PORTABLE FLOW MEASUREMENT SYSTEM,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1994,2,135000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Dr Robert M Hunter,,0,,"AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS AND SCIENTISTS HAVE EXPRESSED A NEED FOR A TRULY PORTABLE FLOW MEASUREMENT SYSTEM THAT RELIES ON SIMPLE PHYSICAL PRINCIPLES. THE SYSTEM SHOULD INCLUDE INEXPENSIVE AND RELIABLE SENSORS CAPABLE OF INTERFACING WITH ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT. THIS RESEARCH WILL INVESTIGATE THE TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY OF A PORTABLE FLOW MEASUREMENT SYSTEM. FOR OVER 50 YEARS, THE CONCEPT OF A COMBINATION VENTURI FLAME/VENTURI TUBE HAS BEEN KNOWN BUT OF LITTLE UTILITY. IMPEDIMENTS TO APPLICATION OF THE CONCEPT HAVE INCLUDED (1) INABILITY OF MEASURING FLOWS IN THE TRANSITION REGION BETWEEN OPEN CHANNEL AND FULL PIPE FLOW AND (2) UNAVAILABILITY OF INEXPENSIVE YET ACCURATE PRESSURE TRANSMITTING AND SENSING SUBASSEMBLIES APPROPRIATE FOR BOTH FLOW CONDITIONS. PREVIOUS RESEARCH BY YELLOWSTONE ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE, INC. HAS SOLVED THE FIRST PROBLEM AND THIS RESEARCH WILL SOLVE THE SECOND. BASED ON AN ANAYLSIS OF PROMISING SENSING OPTIONS, A WORKING MODEL OF A PRESSURE TRANSMISSION/SENSING SUBASSEMBLY WILL BE FABRICATED. THE SUBASSEMBLY WILL UNDERGO STATIC AND DYNAMIC TESTING AT THE BENCH SCALE. LABORATORY-SCALE TESTING OF A COMPLETE WORKING MODEL OF THE PORTABLE FLOW MEASUREMENT SYSTEM WILL THEN BE CONDUCTED TO ASSESS SYSTEM ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY."
Interactive Wellness Software for Adult Cancer Patients,"1 R43 CA65335-1,",HHS,HHS,SBIR,1994,1,81000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Hunter,,3178723955,,"As cancer treatments improve, the view that the illness is ""chronic"" rather than ""terminal"" isbecoming widespread. Under this new paradigm, caregivers have an increasing obligation to helppatients and their families learn how to live with the illness. While attention is given to ""quality of life""as a clinical trial endpoint, development of innovative approaches to measuring and enhancing qualityof life in cancer patients is needed. This research will assess the technical feasibility of developing aninteractive, knowledge-based expert system for enhancing communication regarding life satisfactionissues among adult cancer patients and their caregivers. The purpose of the software is to improve thequality of that communication and to thereby improve conditions affecting the patient's satisfaction withlife, such as functional capacity, self-perception of wellness, and symptoms of disease or treatment.Existing tools for evaluation of quality of life will be reviewed. Commonly-accepted interventions to lossof life satisfaction will be identified. Criteria will be established for initiation of direct communicationbetween a patient and his/her caregivers. Object-oriented programming techniques will be used toprepare high- and low-level software design documentation. A software prototype will be constructedand subjected to alpha testing."
"Distributed, Unattended Storm Water Discharge Monitoring",,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,1994,1,100000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Hunter,,4065863905,,"Many military installations and Department of Defense (DoD) contractors are subject to recently promulgated regulations that require storm water flow metering and collection of both grab samples (in response to a rainfall event of a specified intensity) and flow-weighted composite samples. Such sampling is required prior to preparation of storm water quality management plans and will be required on an annual basis to document compliance with those plans. This project will develop and test a working model of a novel system for distributed, unattended storm water discharge monitoring that is capable of accurate metering and sampling of storm water discharges without on-site calibration of the metering site. The system will be comprised of a family of primary flow metering elements (flow tubes) and normally-off, low-power sensors that can be configured and interrogated over a wireless communication channel by a PC hosting user-friendly Windows(tm) -compatible software. The system will be designed to be compatible with and actuate distributed, unattended rain gauges and automatic samplers and to provide a well-mixed flow stream from which representative grab and composite samples can be obtained. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Applications - Phase I research will investigate the technical feasibility of a system for distributed, unattended monitoring of storm water discharges. If feasible, such a system will find commercial application by at least 270,000 industrial and municipal storm water dischargers. A major U.S. manufacturer estimated the U.S. market for such systems at $136 million by 1995."
Expert System for Recombinant DNA Invention Disclosure,"1 R43 GM50907-1,",HHS,HHS,SBIR,1994,1,81000.00,Yellowstone Environmental,920 Technology Blvd.,,Bozeman,MT,59715,No,No,No,,,,,Robert Hunter,,4065863905,,N/A
EXTRACTION OF COPPER AND ZINC FROM MIXED-METAL CYANIDE SOLUTION USING SOLID PHASE EXTRACTION,,EPA,EPA,SBIR,1993,1,50000.00,Chromatochem Inc.,2837 Ft Missoula Rd,,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,,,,,Dr Richard F Hammen,,4067285897,,"REMOVAL OF TOXIC METALS FROM WASTEWATER STREAMS HAS BECOME A PROBLEM OF INCREASING NATIONAL IMPORTANCE, AS A RESULT OF INCREASING CONCERN FOR OUR ENVIRONMENT, AND INCREASINGLY STRINGENT WASTE DISPOSAL REGULATIONS. CHROMATOCHEM, INC., HAS DEVELOPED AN ECONOMICAL AND EFFECTIVE NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR THE REMOVAL OF LOW LEVELS OF TOXIC METAL IONS FROM WASTEWATER STREAMS, USING SOLID PHASE EXTRACTION (SPE). THIS SPE TECHNOLOGY USES METAL-SELECTIVE REGENTS COVALENTLY BOUND TO A SILICA SOLID SUPPORT BY MEANS OF A PROPRIETARY HYDROPHILIC TETHER MOLECULE. THIS RESEARCH WILL USE SPE TO ADDREESS THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC PROBLEMS RESULTING FROM THE COPPER AND ZINC CYANIDE WASTE PRODUCTS CREATED BY HEAP-LEACHING PRACTICES USED IN THE GOLD MINING INDUSTRY. THE PHASE I WORK WILL INVESTIGATE METHODS TO SEPARATE THE COPPER AND ZINC CYANIDE COMPLEXES FROM GOLD CYANIDE. THE BENEFITS OF SUCH SEPARATION WILL INCLUDE: DECREASED INTRODUCTION OF METAL CYANIDE COMPLEXES INTO THE ENVIRONMENT, AND REDUCED MINING COSTS BY RECYCLING OF CYANIDE AND THE RECOVERY OF COPPER AND ZINC METALS."
HIGH PERFORMANCE IMMOBILIZED METAL AFFINITY CHROMATOGRAPHY,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1993,1,49990.00,Chromatochem Inc.,2837 Ft Missoula Rd,,Missoula,MT,59801,No,No,No,,,,,Holly A Thompson,,4067285897,,N/A
Biotechnological Processes to Strip Polyurethane Paint from Naval Aircraft,,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1993,2,319500.00,J.k. Research,210 South Wallace,,Bozeman,MT,59715,Yes,No,No,,,,,Kenneth Runnion,,4065868744,,"1Certain microorganisms are capable of degrading polyurethane coatings. This feat is accomplished by enzymes normally produced by these microorganisms. But microbial paint stripping, an environmentally compatible alternative to chemical and physical paint stripping, is unacceptably slow. The rate of polyurethane deterioration can be markedly enhanced by using the stable enzymes of thermophilic microorganisms. The objective of this proposal is to identify thermophiles with the ability to degrade polyurethane paint. Labratory techniques will be selected for ease of conversion to scaled-up process. Selected microorganisms will be grown in labratory scale reactors to produce the desired enzymes. Using tangential flow technology, enzymes will then be applied to painted test strips with the objective of rapidly digesting polyurethane paint"
Heat Stable Alkaline Phosphatase from Thermophiles,,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,1993,1,50000.00,J.k. Research,210 South Wallace,,Bozeman,MT,59715,Yes,No,No,,,,,Dr. Joan Combie,,4065868744,,N/A
A TESTING PROCESS TO DEFINE ELECTRODE CURRENT WEAR MECHANISMS AND DEVELOP IMPROVED ELECTRODES,,DOE,DOE,SBIR,1993,1,75000.00,Resodyn Corporation,130 North Main Street,Suite 600,Butte,MT,59701-,No,No,No,,,,,Mr Lawrence C Farrar,,4064942596,,N/A
"Tunable, Solid-State Laser, Detcetors, and Lidar for Orbiting Platforms",,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1993,1,50000.00,SCIENTIFIC MATERIALS CORP.,31948 Frontage Road,,Bozeman,MT,59715-0078,No,No,No,,,,,Ralph L. Hutcheson,,4065853772,,N/A